Twice Baked Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and stuffed with flavor, they’re an easy way to turn a simple potato into something extraordinary. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a get-together, or just looking for a satisfying side dish, this recipe has your back. With just a handful of ingredients and some simple steps, you’ll be serving up spuds that are crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything to gather before you get started:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk (whole or 2% works best)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 4 slices of cooked, crispy bacon (crumbled)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional toppings (chives, paprika, or a dollop of Greek yogurt)
This makes about 4 servings. Adjust the ingredients as needed for more potatoes or hungrier appetites!
Directions
Step 1: Prep and Bake the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry. Lightly coat each potato in olive oil, then poke a few holes in the skin using a fork. This helps steam escape as they bake. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the skins are crisp and the insides are fork-tender.
Step 2: Scoop Out the Insides
Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool slightly—just enough so you can handle them comfortably. Carefully slice each potato in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out the fluffy insides, leaving about a 1/4-inch layer of potato around the skin to keep it intact. Place the scooped-out potato in a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Create the Filling
To the bowl of potato insides, add the sour cream, milk, butter, cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Mash everything together until smooth. Don’t worry about getting it completely lump-free; some texture adds character. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Stuff and Bake Again
Place the potato shells on a baking sheet. Spoon the filling mixture back into each shell, piling it high and evenly dividing it among the halves. Sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese on top for that gooey, melty finish. Pop the potatoes back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tops turn golden brown and bubbly.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Once out of the oven, top each potato with crumbled bacon. For extra pizzazz, sprinkle on some fresh chives, a pinch of paprika, or anything else you love. Serve warm and enjoy each creamy, cheesy mouthful.
Tips for Customization
Twice Baked Potatoes are a blank canvas for flavor. Here are some fun ways to make them your own:
- Add a little heat with diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce in the filling.
- Go veggie-heavy by mixing in roasted broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach.
- Switch up the cheese by trying smoked gouda, pepper jack, or even blue cheese for a bold twist.
- Want a protein boost? Stir in shredded chicken, pulled pork, or black beans.
Serving Suggestions
Twice Baked Potatoes are so versatile! Pair them with a simple green salad for a lighter meal, or serve them alongside steak, grilled chicken, or pork chops for a hearty feast. They also make a fabulous addition to your Thanksgiving or holiday spread.
With their crisp edges, creamy centers, and endless flavor combinations, these Twice Baked Potatoes will disappear faster than you can make them. Dig in and savor every bite!
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