The Loaded Baked Potato Burger is a culinary creation that brings together two American comfort food classics: the richly satisfying loaded baked potato and the universally beloved burger. This inventive hybrid is a celebration of indulgence, combining crispy textures, creamy layers, savory flavors, and a hint of smokiness. It’s perfect for anyone who loves bold, hearty meals that push the boundaries of tradition while still feeling familiar and nostalgic.
The inspiration for this dish came from the undeniable joy of the loaded baked potato—a filling, customizable delight that’s a staple in American households and steakhouses alike. Piled high with sour cream, cheese, chives, and crispy bacon, the loaded baked potato is loved for its perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and salty flavors with textural contrast from caramelized potato edges and crunchy bacon bits. But while it’s a comfort food hero, the idea of making it portable and pairing those flavors with another classic—juicy, satisfying burger patties—was too tempting to resist.
At the heart of the Loaded Baked Potato Burger is innovation with a respect for tradition. Instead of serving a baked potato as a side, this recipe transforms potato into crispy, golden-brown potato cakes, which act as both a topping and textural component for the sandwich. The potato cakes are made from grated russet potatoes, mixed with a touch of flour, egg, green onions, and seasoning, and pan-fried to perfection. They deliver a satisfying crunch on the outside with a tender and flavorful center that mimics the essence of a loaded baked potato in every bite.
The burger patties themselves are kept simple, allowing the bold toppings to shine. An 80/20 blend of ground beef ensures juiciness and flavor, seasoned lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the natural savory notes of the meat. A slice of sharp cheddar cheese is melted directly onto the patties during cooking, creating a creamy, slightly tangy counterbalance to the burger’s richness.
Assembly is where the magic happens. A toasted brioche bun acts as the perfect base for this ensemble, with its slightly sweet, buttery profile complementing the savory ingredients. A generous dollop of sour cream is spread on the bottom bun, infusing the burger with tangy creaminess typically found in a loaded baked potato. The burger patty is placed on top, followed by the crispy potato cake, and then adorned with crispy bacon bits for a salty crunch and a sprinkling of fresh chives for a burst of herbaceous brightness. The top bun crowns this masterpiece, holding everything together in an impressive stack of flavors and textures.
The Loaded Baked Potato Burger isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. It embodies the fun of experimenting with familiar favorites and the joy of discovering new ways to enjoy timeless flavors. It’s ideal for a dinner that feels both indulgent and creative, whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself to something delicious. With each bite, this burger promises the best of both worlds: the comfort of a loaded baked potato and the satisfaction of a perfectly cooked burger.
Loaded Baked Potato Burger
Ingredients
Potato Cakes
- 2 large Russet potatoes Peeled and grated
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 large egg lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons green onions finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt divided
Burger Patties
- 1 pound ground beef 80/20 blend
- ½ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Toppings & Assembly
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 medium brioche buns lightly toasted
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup crispy bacon bits
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
In a bowl, combine grated potatoes, flour, egg, green onions, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Mix well. - Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Use approximately 1/4 cup of potato mixture per cake, flattening in the skillet. Cook each side until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes each side.
Mix ground beef with remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt and black pepper. Form into four equal patties. - In the same skillet, increase heat to medium-high. Cook patties to desired doneness, about 3-4 minutes per side for medium. Add a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking.
- Spread sour cream on the bottom of each toasted brioche bun. Place a burger patty on top, followed by a potato cake.
- Add crispy bacon bits and chives on top. Finish with the top bun.