Cheesy Twice Baked Potatoes are a tasty treat! These soft potatoes are baked, scooped, and mixed with creamy cheese, then baked again until golden and bubbly.
They’re a perfect side dish or a fun snack. I love how easy they are to make—just scoop, mix, stuff, and bake! Plus, they’re so cheesy, you can’t go wrong! 🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for baking due to their fluffy inside. If you can’t find russets, you might try Idaho potatoes. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes as they won’t give you the same creamy texture.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but you can use mild cheddar if you prefer a less intense taste. Other good options are Monterey Jack or a cheese blend for added variety.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt works great as a substitute. It offers similar texture and flavor, plus it’s healthier!
Bacon: Bacon adds a crunchy, savory element. If you’re vegetarian, try using cooked mushrooms or diced bell peppers for that extra flavor without the meat. Crumbled feta can also add a salty bite.
Green Onions: These add a fresh and mild onion flavor. If you don’t have them, chives make a good substitute. They are milder and can brighten up the dish too.
How Can I Get the Perfectly Baked Potato?
Baking the potatoes well is crucial for a great texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by giving your potatoes a good scrub to remove dirt. This ensures a clean and tasty skin.
- Pierce each potato several times with a fork. This helps steam escape while baking and prevents them from bursting.
- Baking directly on the oven rack at a high temperature (400°F) is key to achieving that crispy skin and fluffy inside. Rotate them halfway through for even cooking.
- Check for doneness by inserting a fork. The potato should be soft and easy to pierce. If you hit resistance, give them a few more minutes!
Letting them cool slightly before handling is important, as they will be very hot! This careful baking sets the foundation for making your twice baked potatoes a hit.
How to Make Cheesy Twice Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 green onions, chopped (divided)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 15 minutes to prep and about 1 hour and 15 minutes total (50-60 minutes for baking the potatoes and another 15-20 minutes for baking after filling). So get ready to enjoy some cheesy goodness in just a little over an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Give the potatoes a good wash and scrub them thoroughly to remove any dirt. Then, pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.
2. Baking the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the skin is crisp, and a fork easily pierces the flesh. Once they’re done, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly until they are safe to handle.
3. Scooping Out the Flesh:
Once the potatoes are cool enough to touch, cut each one in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the inner potato flesh, leaving a thin layer attached to the skin so they hold their shape. Put the scooped potato flesh into a large mixing bowl.
4. Mixing the Filling:
To the bowl with the potato flesh, add sour cream, milk, butter, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until it is creamy and well combined—taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary!
5. Stuffing the Potatoes:
Spoon the creamy filling mixture back into each potato skin, making sure to divide it evenly. Once filled, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of each potato.
6. Final Baking:
Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown on top. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Garnishing and Serving:
Carefully remove the potatoes from the oven. Top them off with chopped green onions for a little extra flavor and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your cheesy twice baked potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is delicious, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of your favorites for a unique flavor. Just remember that the melting properties might vary slightly.
What If I Don’t Have Sour Cream?
No problem! You can use Greek yogurt, which gives a similar creamy texture and tanginess, or even cream cheese for a richer filling. Adjust the quantity to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Twice Baked Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can add a little extra cheese on top for a melty finish!
Can I Make These Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the stuffed potatoes up to the baking step, cover them with plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are cold.
