Nebraska Grilled Loaded Baked Potatoes

Introduction

These Nebraska Loaded Baked Potatoes are the ultimate side dish or even a main course for your next grill session. Cooked entirely on the Arteflame grill, they’re infused with smoky flavor and grilled to golden perfection. Each potato is split and loaded with buttery cheddar, crispy bacon, scallions, and a healthy dollop of sour cream. Grilling all ingredients directly on the flat top cooktop ensures even searing, rich taste, and beautiful presentation. Perfect for outdoor gatherings and grilling enthusiasts, this hearty recipe is pure comfort with a Midwest twist.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 4 tablespoons butter (plus more for serving)
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 scallions, finely sliced
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Fresh cracked black pepper, to taste
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Light the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour a little vegetable oil on three paper napkins.
2. Place the oiled napkins in the center of the Arteflame grill.
3. Stack firewood over top of the napkins.
4. Light the napkins and allow the fire to build. The grill will be ready in about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and scrub the potatoes. Pat them dry.
2. Rub each potato with a bit of butter and sprinkle with salt.
3. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking.

Step 3: Grill the Potatoes

1. Place the prepared potatoes near the center of the flat cooktop (medium-high heat zone).
2. Rotate them occasionally, cooking until the skins are crispy and the inside is tender—about 40-50 minutes depending on size.
3. You’ll know they’re done when a skewer slides in easily.

Step 4: Cook the Bacon

1. While potatoes are cooking, place the bacon slices on the flat griddle area near the hotter zone.
2. Cook until golden and crispy, flipping as needed, about 6-8 minutes total.
3. Remove and chop into bits once slightly cooled.

Step 5: Assemble the Loaded Potatoes

1. Once cooked, slice the potatoes open lengthwise and gently mash the insides with a fork.
2. Add a pat of butter into each potato and mix slightly.
3. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and let melt using the carryover heat.
4. Add bacon bits, a spoonful of sour cream, and sliced scallions.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional chopped parsley for color and brightness.

Tips

• Choose similar-sized potatoes for even cooking.
• Adjust the position of the potatoes based on the heat zones—closer to the center for faster cooking, outer edge for slower.
• Wrap potatoes in foil if you’d like a steamier texture inside, though it's not necessary.
• For added richness, mix the butter into the potato flesh before loading with toppings.
• Cook bacon on a slightly cooler flat zone to prevent burning and ensure even crispness.

Variations

1. BBQ Pulled Pork Loaded Potato: Top with pulled pork, cheddar, and drizzle of BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
2. Broccoli Cheddar: Add steamed grilled broccoli florets with extra sharp cheddar for a classic combo.
3. Tex-Mex Style: Use pepper jack cheese, grilled corn, black beans, and a spoonful of salsa.
4. Buffalo Chicken: Top with grilled buffalo chicken bits, blue cheese crumbles, and ranch drizzle.
5. Mushroom & Swiss: Sautée mushrooms on the griddle and top with melted Swiss for a gourmet option.

Best pairings

• Grilled Ribeye or Tenderloin Steak (reverse seared on Arteflame)
• Charred Asparagus with Lemon Butter
• Smoky Grilled Corn on the Cob
• Cold Lager or a Dry Riesling
• Crisp Garden Salad with Dijon Vinaigrette

Conclusion

These Nebraska Grilled Loaded Baked Potatoes are hearty, delicious, and incredibly satisfying. Cooking them entirely on the Arteflame grill brings out robust, smoky flavors that can’t be duplicated in a conventional oven. Whether you're serving them on their own or as a side to grilled meat, everyone will be asking for seconds.