Baked potatoes are an easy, affordable, and nutritious meal option. This recipe uses a russet potato (or sweet potato!) as the base and allows you to customize your meal by choosing a protein, vegetables, and dairy toppings that suit your taste.

A built-your-own baked potato is a great way to use ingredients you already have at home while creating a balanced meal. Mix and match your favorite toppings to make it your own.

Prep + Cook Time: 30 minutes

Serves 4

Instructions

Pick a Potato

Russet potato
Sweet Potato

Pick a Protein (choose one)

4 ounces canned chicken
4 ounces pulled pork
4 ounces ground beef
4 ounces black beans
4 ounces ham

Pick Vegetables (mix and match, up to 1 cup diced)

Onions (sweet or green)
Collard greens
Bell peppers
Mushrooms

Add Dairy (choose one, 2 tablespoons)

Port-skim cheddar cheese, shredded
Greek yogurt
Unsalted butter

Preparation

Wash hands with soap and warm water.
Scrub potato. Poke several times with a fork or knife.
Place on a microwave-safe plate.
If cooking:
- 1 potato: microwave for 7 to 10 minutes, or until soft.
- 2 or 3 potatoes: microwave for 10 to 12 minutes, or until soft.
- 4 or 5 potatoes: microwave for 14 to 15 minutes, or until soft.
Turn over halfway through cooking.
Let the potato rest for 1 to 3 minutes.
Add seasonings and toppings as desired.