Baked potatoes are a beloved dish in American cuisine. With their crispy skin and soft, fluffy interior, they can be served as the star of a meal or as a comforting side dish. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, the versatility of baked potatoes makes them a crowd favorite. But what really makes them shine are the delicious side dishes and toppings that you pair them with. This guide explores what goes well with baked potatoes—from hearty proteins to light salads—so you can elevate your baked potato to the next level.
Let’s dive into the perfect pairings for baked potatoes, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply cooking a cozy meal at home. From protein-rich meats to creamy toppings and fresh vegetables, these sides will transform your baked potatoes into a complete meal.
The Secret to the Perfect Baked Potato
Before discussing pairings, it’s essential to master the art of baking the perfect potato. A well-baked potato should have a crisp, golden-brown skin and a light, fluffy interior. To achieve this, start by selecting the right type of potato—russet potatoes are ideal because they have a starchy consistency that bakes well. Once you’ve picked your potatoes, scrub them clean and pat them dry. Pierce each potato with a fork several times to allow steam to escape during baking. For crispy skin, rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake the potatoes in an oven preheated to 400°F for about 50-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. When cooked properly, the inside will be soft, and the skin will have a delightful crunch.
With your perfectly baked potato ready, let’s explore the side dishes and toppings that can make your baked potato truly unforgettable.
1. Grilled Steak: A Hearty Protein
One of the most popular pairings with baked potatoes is grilled steak. Whether it’s a ribeye, sirloin, or New York strip, the rich, savory flavor of a well-seasoned steak perfectly complements the mild flavor of a baked potato. The juicy steak adds protein and depth to the meal, while the baked potato serves as a hearty and filling side. This combination is a favorite in steakhouses across the United States and is an excellent choice for special occasions or family dinners.
To enhance the pairing, you can top the baked potato with a dollop of sour cream, butter, and chives, or drizzle the steak’s pan juices over the potato for extra flavor. The combination of crispy potato skin, tender steak, and creamy toppings creates a satisfying contrast of textures and flavors.
2. Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions: Earthy and Savory
For a rich and savory side dish that pairs beautifully with baked potatoes, look no further than sautéed mushrooms and onions. The earthy flavor of the mushrooms and the sweetness of the caramelized onions enhance the mild, starchy flavor of the baked potato. This pairing is a great option for vegetarians or anyone looking to add a gourmet touch to their meal.
Sauté the mushrooms and onions in olive oil or butter until golden brown, then season with salt, pepper, and a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for added depth. Spoon the mushrooms and onions over the baked potato, or serve them on the side to let the flavors mingle on the plate. The result is a luxurious dish that feels both comforting and indulgent.
3. Chili: Comforting and Filling
Few things are more comforting than a baked potato topped with a hearty serving of chili. Whether you prefer a traditional beef chili or a vegetarian version with beans and vegetables, this combination is sure to satisfy. The rich, spicy flavors of the chili complement the mildness of the potato, while the combination of textures—soft potatoes, chunky chili, and smooth cheese—makes for a meal that is both hearty and delicious.
To serve, simply ladle the chili over the baked potato and top with shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions. This combination is perfect for cold winter nights, game-day gatherings, or any time you’re craving comfort food. For a unique twist, try using sweet potatoes instead of russets for a slightly sweeter flavor profile.
4. Steamed Broccoli and Cheese Sauce: A Classic Combo
For a lighter yet still indulgent option, pair your baked potato with steamed broccoli and cheese sauce. The fresh, slightly crunchy texture of the broccoli adds a healthy element to the meal, while the creamy cheese sauce brings a rich, savory flavor that complements the potato’s soft interior.
To prepare, steam the broccoli until tender but still crisp, then drizzle with a homemade cheese sauce made from cheddar or another sharp cheese. Alternatively, you can simply melt cheddar cheese over the broccoli and baked potato for a quicker option. The combination of vegetables and cheese makes this dish both nutritious and satisfying, striking the perfect balance between indulgence and health.
5. Bacon, Sour Cream, and Chives: A Decadent Topping
When it comes to classic baked potato toppings, few are as beloved as bacon, sour cream, and chives. This combination offers a salty, savory richness from the crispy bacon, a creamy tang from the sour cream, and a fresh burst of flavor from the chives. Together, they transform a simple baked potato into a decadent treat.
To serve, top the baked potato with a generous spoonful of sour cream, sprinkle crispy crumbled bacon on top, and finish with a handful of chopped chives. For added flavor, you can also sprinkle a bit of shredded cheddar cheese or drizzle some melted butter over the potato. This topping combination is perfect for BBQs, casual dinners, or anytime you’re craving comfort food with a little extra indulgence.
6. Salad: Light and Refreshing
If you’re looking for a lighter pairing, a fresh, crisp salad makes an excellent side dish for baked potatoes. The bright, crunchy texture of the salad contrasts beautifully with the creamy potato, creating a balanced and refreshing meal. You can opt for a simple garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette, or go for a Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and parmesan cheese.
This pairing works especially well when you’re aiming for a lighter, more nutritious meal that still feels satisfying. A salad brings a fresh element to the plate, offering a nice contrast to the rich flavors of a baked potato with toppings like butter and sour cream. For added protein, you can also toss some grilled chicken into the salad.
7. Grilled Salmon: Light and Healthy
For a lighter, more health-conscious option, grilled salmon pairs beautifully with baked potatoes. The rich, tender texture of the salmon contrasts nicely with the potato’s fluffy interior, and the combination is both flavorful and nutritious. Grilled salmon is packed with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making this pairing a great choice for those looking to create a balanced meal.
To serve, season the salmon with lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, then grill it to perfection. You can either serve the salmon on the side of the baked potato or flake it over the top with a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness. The combination of grilled fish and baked potato is ideal for a healthy weeknight dinner or a light, elegant meal for guests.
8. Baked Beans: Sweet and Savory
For a traditional and comforting side dish, pair your baked potato with baked beans. The slightly sweet and smoky flavors of the beans complement the mild, starchy taste of the potato, creating a delicious contrast of flavors. This combination is especially popular at BBQs and casual family dinners.
To serve, simply spoon the baked beans over the baked potato or alongside it on the plate. For extra flavor, add a bit of crumbled bacon or smoked sausage to the beans. This pairing is perfect for backyard gatherings or when you want something simple, filling, and satisfying.
9. Roasted Vegetables: Healthy and Delicious
Roasted vegetables are a great way to add both flavor and nutrition to your baked potato meal. Vegetables like carrots, Brussels sprouts, zucchini, and bell peppers become caramelized and slightly crispy when roasted, offering a nice textural contrast to the soft potato.
To prepare, toss the vegetables in olive oil, season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, then roast in the oven until golden brown. You can serve the roasted vegetables on the side of the baked potato or mix them into the potato for a flavorful and healthy combination. This is an excellent option for vegetarians or anyone looking to incorporate more vegetables into their meal.
10. Coleslaw: Tangy and Crunchy
For a light and refreshing side, coleslaw makes an excellent companion to baked potatoes. The tangy, crunchy texture of the cabbage provides a sharp contrast to the creamy potato, and the combination works particularly well for BBQs or outdoor meals. You can make coleslaw with either a creamy mayo-based dressing or a lighter, vinegar-based version, depending on your preference.
To serve, simply spoon the coleslaw alongside the baked potato, allowing the tangy dressing to cut through the richness of the potato. For a twist, try adding grated apple or pineapple to the coleslaw for a sweet and tangy kick.
11. Creamed Spinach: Rich and Velvety
For a more indulgent pairing, try serving creamed spinach with your baked potato. This luxurious, garlicky side dish brings a rich, creamy element to the meal that pairs wonderfully with the potato’s soft texture. The spinach adds a nutritious component, while the cream and cheese make it feel decadent.
To prepare, sauté fresh spinach with garlic and olive oil, then stir in cream, butter, and parmesan cheese to create a velvety sauce. Serve the creamed spinach on the side of the baked potato, or spoon it over the top for a truly indulgent meal. This combination is perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself to something a little more luxurious.
12. Pulled Pork: Smoky and Tender
For a smoky, savory pairing, pulled pork is an excellent choice to serve alongside baked potatoes. The tender, slow-cooked pork melts in your mouth, while the smoky barbecue sauce adds a tangy, flavorful contrast to the mild potato. This combination is particularly popular at BBQs, picnics, or family gatherings.
To serve, pile the pulled pork on top of the baked potato or alongside it, and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce for added flavor. You can also add a scoop of coleslaw on top of the pulled pork for extra crunch and texture. This pairing is perfect for hearty meals that are both flavorful and satisfying.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Baked Potato with the Perfect Pairings
Baked potatoes are a simple, comforting dish, but when paired with the right sides and toppings, they can become the highlight of any meal. Whether you’re in the mood for something light like grilled salmon and a salad, or craving something hearty like chili or pulled pork, there’s a perfect pairing for every occasion. With endless combinations of flavors and textures, baked potatoes can be transformed into a meal that is as creative as it is delicious. The next time you bake a potato, try one of these pairings to create a satisfying, well-rounded dish that’s sure to please.