Baked Potatoes with Sour Cream and Chives

Introduction

Few side dishes are as timeless and satisfying as a Baked Potato with Sour Cream and Chives. The humble potato transforms into something extraordinary when baked until its skin is crisp and its insides are fluffy. Topped with cool, tangy sour cream and the subtle bite of fresh chives, this dish is simple yet elegant.

It’s a versatile recipe that can serve as a side dish for roasted meats or even as a light main course when loaded with extra toppings like cheese, bacon, or vegetables. Whether it’s a family dinner, BBQ night, or a casual snack, baked potatoes are always a welcome addition.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it strikes the perfect balance of textures and flavors—crispy skin, soft fluffy inside, creamy topping, and fresh herbs. It’s comfort food at its finest, yet feels light and refreshing with the addition of sour cream and chives.

I also love that it’s effortless yet impressive. You only need a few simple ingredients, and the oven does most of the work. It’s inexpensive, adaptable, and always a crowd-pleaser.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Classic and timeless – a dish everyone knows and loves.
• Versatile – can be served as a side or as a main with extra toppings.
• Budget-friendly – just a few pantry ingredients.
• Naturally gluten-free and vegetarian.
• Minimal prep, maximum flavor.

Recipe Details

• Cuisine: American / European
• Course: Side Dish or Light Main
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~220 per serving (without extra toppings)

Ingredients

• 4 large Russet potatoes (best for baking)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tbsp fresh chives, finely chopped
• Optional: shredded cheddar cheese, bacon bits, or butter

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Bake potatoes until skins are crispy and centers are fluffy.
2. Slice open and fluff with a fork.
3. Top with sour cream and chives.
4. Serve hot with optional toppings.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat Oven

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare Potatoes

• Scrub potatoes well and pat dry.
• Pierce each potato 3–4 times with a fork.
• Rub with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Bake

• Place potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 50–60 minutes, until skins are crisp and a fork slides easily into the center.

Step 4: Slice & Fluff

• Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
• Slice each potato lengthwise and gently fluff the inside with a fork.

Step 5: Add Toppings

• Top with sour cream and sprinkle with fresh chives.
• Add extra toppings like cheese, bacon, or butter if desired.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a side dish with steak, chicken, or fish.
• Enjoy as a light meal topped with cheese, veggies, or beans.
• Perfect for BBQs, weeknight dinners, or as a holiday side.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use Russet potatoes for the fluffiest insides and crispy skins.
• For ultra-crispy skins, bake directly on the oven rack.
• Warm the sour cream slightly before topping if you don’t want it too cold.
• Don’t wrap in foil—this steams the potato instead of roasting.

Variations

1. Loaded Baked Potato: Add cheddar, bacon, and green onions.
2. Vegetarian Style: Top with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.
3. Tex-Mex Twist: Add salsa, avocado, and shredded cheese.
4. Garlic Butter Potato: Mix roasted garlic into the fluffy potato center before topping.
5. Healthy Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigerator: Store baked potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked potatoes (without toppings) for up to 1 month. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until heated through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet or oven rack
• Fork (for piercing and fluffing)
• Sharp knife

Conclusion

Baked Potatoes with Sour Cream and Chives is the ultimate comfort side dish—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with creamy sour cream and fresh herbs. Simple, delicious, and endlessly versatile, this recipe is a must-have in your cooking repertoire.

Whether you serve it as a hearty side or load it up for a main course, this dish delivers pure comfort and flavor in every bite.