The 3-Ingredient, 25-Minute Baked Potatoes I Make for Dinner All the Time
Fluffy steamed russet potatoes loaded with sharp cheddar and rich sour cream make the coziest quick supper.

- The microwave-then-broil shortcut saves 40 minutes compared to traditional baking.
- Only 3 ingredients: Russet potatoes, cheddar cheese, and sour cream.
- Can easily be customized with bacon, chili, or steamed broccoli.
The 3-Ingredient, 25-Minute Baked Potatoes I Make for Dinner All the Time
When I don't know what to make for dinner and need real comfort food on the table in 25 minutes, I turn to these quick microwave-to-oven baked potatoes. They get crisp skins and steaming, fluffy insides loaded with melted sharp cheddar.
Ingredients
- 4 medium Russet potatoes, scrubbed clean and pierced with a fork
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, freshly shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for rubbing skin
- Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
- Chopped chives or scallions (optional garnish)
Directions
Microwave cook potatoes
Rub potato skins with oil and salt. Microwave on high for 10-12 minutes, turning halfway, until tender throughout when pierced with a knife.
Split and fluff
Slice open lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff the steamy interiors, folding in salt, pepper, and a spoonful of sour cream.
Melt cheese under broiler
Mound shredded cheddar generously into the opening. Broil in a toaster oven or oven for 3-4 minutes until bubbling and golden.
Garnish and serve
Top with a dollop of cold sour cream, black pepper, and sliced chives.
π‘ CHEF'S PRO TIPS
- Piercing the potatoes with a fork 5-6 times prevents steam build-up.
- Grating your own cheddar ensures silky melting without starch clumpiness.
Nutrition Facts
Per ServingCommunity Reviews & Ratings
2 cooks have shared their thoughts on this recipe
This has completely replaced my normal avocado toast! The beans blend so well you cannot even tell, and I stay full until lunchtime!
Great trick for adding protein without cooking eggs on busy mornings. Added a pinch of red pepper flakes and lemon zestβdelicious.




