Stuffed potatoes are like little edible canvases — golden, crispy, and filled with all sorts of tasty combinations that fit any craving. Whether you're in the mood for creamy, cheesy comfort food or looking for something fresh and veggie-packed, stuffed potatoes can deliver. They’re perfect as a hearty side, a main dish, or even as a snack to impress guests. Best of all, they’re simple to make yet feel fancy enough to steal the spotlight on any dinner table.
Here’s a classic, easy-to-follow recipe for stuffed potatoes, along with creative tips to help you make them your own.
Ingredients:
Before you start, gather everything you’ll need for this delicious recipe. Serves 4.
Base:
- 4 medium russet potatoes (cleaned and scrubbed)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional for crispier skin)
- 1 teaspoon salt
Classic Filling:
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 strips of crispy bacon (crumbled)
- 2 green onions (finely sliced)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings/Filling Add-ins:
- Extra shredded cheese
- Chopped parsley or chives
- Diced tomatoes or avocado
- Sautéed mushrooms or spinach
- Hot sauce or salsa for a spicy kick
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prick each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.
- For extra crispy skin, rub each potato lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Hollow Out the Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise.
- Gently scoop out the fluffy insides of each potato half, leaving about ¼-inch of potato near the skin to create a sturdy shell. Place the scooped potato into a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- Mash the potato insides with butter, sour cream, and a generous sprinkle of salt and pepper. It should be creamy but slightly textured.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and most of the green onions (save a few for garnish).
Step 4: Stuff and Bake Again
- Fill each potato shell generously with the mashed potato mixture, piling it high.
- Place the stuffed potatoes back on the baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touches
- Once baked, sprinkle each stuffed potato with the remaining green onions. Add any additional toppings you like, such as more cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh herbs.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Customization:
One of the best things about stuffed potatoes is their versatility. You can tweak the recipe based on your taste or diet. Here are a few fun variations to try:
- Veggie Lovers’ Style – Replace the bacon with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli. Add a dash of smoked paprika for extra flavor.
- Southwestern Twist – Fill the potatoes with black beans, corn, a sprinkle of chili powder, and pepper jack cheese. Top with salsa and guacamole.
- Breakfast Stuffed Potatoes – Fill with scrambled eggs, crispy sausage, and shredded cheese. Top with a drizzle of hollandaise sauce.
- Mediterranean Theme – Use feta cheese, Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a handful of spinach. Add a touch of fresh dill for a zesty finish.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Stuffed potatoes are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. The combination of crispy skin, fluffy insides, and endless options for toppings makes them a dreamy addition to any meal. Not only are they easy to customize for any craving, but they’re also a great way to use up leftovers. Whether you're feeding a family or planning an elegant dinner, stuffed potatoes always hit the spot.
Go ahead — grab those potatoes and start stuffing! Bon appétit.
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