Name: Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes for Your Next Backyard Bash
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Red Potatoes (Cut into 1/2-inch cubes); 2 tablespoons Cooking Oil (Neutral-flavored oil); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 1 teaspoon Pepper; 6 slices Bacon (Crumbled); 1 cup Chicken (Cooked and cut into pieces); 1 packet Dry Ranch Seasoning; 1/4 cup Wing Sauce (Adjust for heat level); 1 cup Shredded Cheese (Use dairy-free for vegan); 1/4 cup Green Onions (Chopped); 1/2 cup Sour Cream; 1/4 cup Ranch Dressing

The sun dips low in the sky, casting a warm glow over the backyard as the scent of grilled goodness wafts through the air. Nothing beats the joy of gathering around with friends and family over a sizzling platter of Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes. These crispy, golden delights are a game-changer for outdoor cooking, combining the perfect mix of tender, fluffy interiors and a satisfying crunch on the outside. The best part? They’re a total crowd-pleaser! Quick to whip up and endlessly customizable, you can load them with your favorite toppings—from savory bacon to gooey cheese or fresh veggies—making them a hit for everyone at the table. Ready to turn your next cookout into a flavorful feast? Let’s dive in and get that griddle fired up!

Why are these loaded potatoes a must-try?

Crispy Perfection: The combination of cooking techniques guarantees a glorious crispiness that you won’t find in boring fast food.

Endless Customization: Tailor each bite to your taste—think spicy or mild toppings, and switch out proteins for a vegetarian feast!

Quick Preparation: Ideal for busy home cooks, these Blackstone Loaded Potatoes come together swiftly, perfect for impromptu gatherings or family dinners.

Flavor Explosion: With savory bacon, creamy cheese, and zesty ranch seasoning, every mouthful is a delight that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Crowd-Pleasing: Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or a cozy dinner for two, these potatoes are a guaranteed hit! Pair them with a fresh garden salad or even Chicken Nachos Home for a delicious spread.

Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes Ingredients

• Note: Gather these ingredients for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish to impress at your next barbecue!

For the Potatoes

Red Potatoes – The foundation for these loaded potatoes, offering a fluffy interior and crispy skin.
Cooking Oil – Ensures a golden, crispy texture while preventing sticking; use any neutral-flavored oil for best results.
Kosher Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning, bringing out the natural flavors of the dish.

For the Toppings

Bacon – Crumbled on top for a savory crunch; swap for turkey bacon for a lighter option.
Chicken – Provides hearty protein; try cooked beef or turkey if you prefer a different flavor, or omit for a vegetarian spin.
Dry Ranch Seasoning – Adds a zesty flavor that melds perfectly with the other ingredients.
Wing Sauce – Offers a spicy kick; adjust to your preferred heat level or omit for a milder taste.
Shredded Cheese – Melts beautifully on top for that creamy finish; use dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.

For Garnishing

Green Onions – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch that enhances the overall flavor.
Sour Cream – Brings a cool, creamy element that balances the richness of the potatoes.
Ranch Dressing – A drizzle on top takes the flavor to new heights!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by washing and cutting the red potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes to ensure even cooking. Also, cut your chicken into the same-sized pieces for consistency. Arrange both on a tray, ready for you to toss onto the griddle. Having everything prepped allows you to work efficiently as you create these Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes.

Step 2: Preheat Griddle
Preheat your Blackstone griddle to 375°F. This temperature is crucial for achieving that irresistible crispy exterior while maintaining a fluffy interior. Allow about 10-15 minutes for the griddle to fully heat up before you start cooking the potatoes, so you can maximize flavor and texture in your finished dish.

Step 3: Cook Bacon
Place slices of bacon on the griddle and grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon and let it cool slightly before crumbling. Set it aside, and keep the flavorful bacon grease on the griddle for the next step, as it will enhance the flavor of the potatoes.

Step 4: Cook Potatoes
Add a drizzle of cooking oil to the griddle and then toss in the diced potatoes. Season generously with kosher salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Cook the potatoes for 9-11 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are golden and crispy outside. The perfect visual cue is when they turn golden brown and start to crisp up nicely.

Step 5: Add Chicken
Mix in the chicken pieces with the cooked potatoes on the griddle. Sprinkle more salt and pepper for seasoning. Continue cooking for another 9-11 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear. This will ensure all components of your Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes are perfectly combined and flavorful.

Step 6: Season and Combine
Evenly sprinkle the dry ranch seasoning and drizzle the wing sauce over the potato-chicken mixture. Toss everything together well on the griddle, allowing the heat to meld the flavors for an additional 1-2 minutes. The aromatic blend of ranch and spice will elevate the dish to its full potential, making these potatoes irresistible.

Step 7: Add Cheese & Garnish
Spread the mixture evenly across the griddle and generously top it with shredded cheese. Allow it to melt for about 2-3 minutes, creating a gooey, cheesy layer over your loaded potatoes. Once melted, garnish with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. This final touch gives the Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes a fresh and colorful presentation, ready to serve!

What to Serve with Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes

Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with delightful sides that balance flavors and textures!

Garden Salad: A bright, refreshing mix of greens and veggies perfectly complements the savory loaded potatoes and adds a crisp contrast to each bite.
Roasted Green Beans: Their tender-crisp finish and subtle seasoning create a delightful pairing, providing a lighter side that contrasts with the rich flavors of the potatoes.
Coleslaw: This tangy, crunchy side brings brightness and a refreshing element, cutting through the richness of the loaded potatoes and enhancing the overall flavor.

Want to sip something alongside?

Iced Tea: A cool, refreshing drink that’s perfect for summer days; its subtle sweetness complements the savory tones beautifully.
Lemonade: The tartness of homemade lemonade provides a refreshing pop that energizes the meal, delightfully balancing the richness of your loaded potatoes.

Indulging your sweet tooth?

Chocolate Chip Cookies: A warm, gooey cookie brings nostalgia and sweetness to the meal, making it a perfect ending that everyone will love!

Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and transform these loaded potatoes into something uniquely yours!

Yukon Gold Potatoes: Substitute red potatoes with Yukon Golds for a slightly sweeter flavor and creamy texture.
Turkey Bacon: For a lighter option, swap out regular bacon for turkey bacon to retain that savory crunch without the extra fat.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit the chicken and substitute with black beans or extra veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian feast.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist or smoked gouda for a rich, deep flavor.
Sautéed Veggies: Add sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or fresh spinach to the mix for added nutrition and vibrant color.
Heat it Up: Prefer a kick? Incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a fiery, flavor-packed bite.
Pesto Drizzle: Swap out ranch seasoning for a fresh basil pesto topping, elevating the dish to a new level of taste.
Top it Off: Serve with dollops of guacamole or fresh salsa on top to add a zesty finish. You could also pair it with tasty Chicken Nachos Home for a delightful combination.

No matter how you mix and match, these variations will keep everyone happily digging in!

Make Ahead Options

These Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the potatoes and chicken and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they stay fresh and ready for cooking. Additionally, you can cook the bacon ahead and keep it crumbled in a separate container for about 3 days to maintain its crunchiness. When you’re ready to enjoy your loaded potatoes, simply preheat the griddle and cook the prepared ingredients as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade Blackstone Loaded Potatoes on the table with minimal effort!

Storage Tips for Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; separating toppings, such as sour cream and cheese, can help maintain texture and flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Reheat on the Blackstone or in an oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, adding cheese in the last few minutes for a melty finish. Microwaving is an option, but be aware that it may not retain the crispiness of the Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes.

Make-Ahead: Prep the components, including diced potatoes and chicken, and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days to streamline cooking on the day of your gathering.

Expert Tips for Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes

Choose the Right Potatoes: Red potatoes provide the ideal texture; avoid using russets as they may fall apart during cooking.
Preheat for Perfection: Make sure your Blackstone is at 375°F before adding the potatoes. This step is vital to achieve that glorious crispy exterior.
Don’t Overcrowd: Allow plenty of space between potatoes on the griddle. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of crisping.
Let Them Sit: Avoid stirring too frequently while cooking. Let the potatoes develop a crust on each side before flipping for optimal texture.
Customize Your Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like sautéed veggies or various cheeses to make the best Blackstone loaded potatoes truly your own!

Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes Recipe FAQs

What type of potatoes are best for loaded potatoes?
Absolutely! Red potatoes are your best bet for these loaded potatoes as they provide a fluffy interior and a crispy exterior. If you want to experiment, you can use baby reds or Yukon Golds, but avoid russets since they tend to fall apart.

How long can I store leftover loaded potatoes?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, I recommend keeping any toppings, like sour cream or cheese, separate until you’re ready to enjoy them again.

Can I freeze Best Blackstone Loaded Potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze, spread the cooked loaded potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just remember to label your bag with the date!

What should I do if my potatoes are not crisping up?
If you find your potatoes aren’t getting crispy, it might be due to overcrowding on the griddle. Make sure there’s enough space between the pieces to allow steam to escape. Also, let them sit on the griddle for a few minutes before stirring to give them a chance to form that golden crust.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! You can easily make these loaded potatoes vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables or beans. Additionally, you can substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based cheese instead of regular cheese.

Can I prep ingredients ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can wash and cut the potatoes and chicken two days in advance. Store them separately in the fridge to ensure freshness. This way, when it’s time to cook, you’ll have everything organized and ready to go, making it quick and easy to whip up those amazing Blackstone loaded potatoes!