Preheat + Prep Potatoes: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Rinse potatoes under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Pierce each potato 3-4 times with a fork. Rub the outside of each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Bake: Place the potatoes directly on the middle rack of a preheated oven. Bake for 60-75 minutes. Cooking time varies depending on the size of the potatoes (internal temperature should be 210 degrees F - use a meat thermometer).

Cool + Cut: Carefully remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and then use a sharp knife to cut, lengthwise, down the top of each potato without cutting all the way through.

Add Toppings: Divide shredded cheese, bacon bits, sour cream, and green onions across all 4 baked potatoes. Highly recommend adding the shredded cheese first, to let it melt a bit, and then add the rest of the toppings.

Serve: Enjoy immediately as a simple dinner or alongside your favorite main dish!