Easy & Delicious Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy

Twice-baked potatoes are a comforting and satisfying dish that combines crispy potato skins with a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful mashed potato filling. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or even a casual get-together. The combination of crispy exteriors and rich, cheesy interiors makes this dish absolutely irresistible.

This twice-baked potatoes recipe is easy to make and can be customized with various toppings and mix-ins like bacon, chives, or sour cream. Whether served as a side dish or a light main course, these potatoes never fail to impress. Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide to making the perfect twice-baked potatoes!

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 30mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Sugar: 2g

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Active Time: 1 hour
• Resting Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Side Dish/Main Course
• Servings: 4

Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Mixing bowls
• Fork or potato masher
• Spoon
• Knife
• Oven mitts

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
• 2 green onions, finely chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water and pat them dry.
3. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
4. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and place them directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
5. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and the skin is crispy.
6. Remove from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Scoop Out the Potato Flesh

1. Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
2. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer inside to help the skins hold their shape.
3. Place the scooped-out potato flesh into a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

1. Mash the potato flesh using a fork or potato masher until smooth.
2. Add sour cream, milk, melted butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
3. Mix well until the filling is creamy and lump-free.
4. Stir in 3/4 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, bacon (if using), and half of the chopped green onions.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Refill the Potato Skins

1. Spoon the creamy potato mixture back into the hollowed-out potato skins, distributing evenly.
2. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of each potato.
3. Lightly dust the tops with paprika for extra flavor and color.

Step 5: Second Bake

1. Place the stuffed potatoes back on the baking sheet.
2. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for another 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted.
3. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Garnish with the remaining chopped green onions.
2. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious twice-baked potatoes!

Tips & Variations

• Add extra toppings: Try topping with crispy bacon bits, chopped chives, or a dollop of sour cream.
• Cheese options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, gouda, or parmesan for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the bacon and add roasted veggies or black beans for extra flavor.
• Make-ahead: Prepare the potatoes up to step 4, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, bake as directed.

Conclusion

This Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe is the perfect way to elevate a simple baked potato into a flavorful, creamy, and indulgent dish. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner, a holiday meal, or a potluck, these potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit. With their crispy skins and cheesy, flavorful filling, you’ll love every bite of these twice-baked potatoes!

Try this recipe and let us know how it turned out in the comments. Happy cooking!