Twice Baked Potatoes
Creamy and cheesy Twice Baked Potatoes transform fluffy russet potatoes into a luscious, comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this classic recipe delivers rich flavors and a smooth texture, easily customizable with herbs, bacon, or spice for every palate.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 4 large russet baking potatoes
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-ins
- 2 tablespoons chopped scallions
- 3 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1 tablespoon chopped chives
- Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean, poke a few holes with a fork, and bake them directly on the oven rack for 45-60 minutes until skins are crispy and the insides are fluffy when pierced.
- Step 2: Scoop Out the Potato Flesh
When cool enough to handle, cut the potatoes in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer inside the skins to help hold the filling.
- Step 3: Prepare the Filling
Mash the scooped-out potato flesh with butter, sour cream, milk, and shredded cheese. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix until creamy and smooth. Stir in any optional add-ins like bacon or scallions now.
- Step 4: Stuff and Bake Again
Spoon the cheesy potato mixture back into the potato skins, mounding it slightly. Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden and bubbling.
- Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh chives, parsley, or green onions if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Choose russet potatoes for best fluffy texture.
- Do not overfill potato skins to prevent overflow during baking.
- Brush skins with olive oil and salt before baking for extra crispness.
- Allow potatoes to cool before scooping to avoid burns and skin breakage.
- Use room temperature butter, sour cream, and milk for a smoother filling.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed potato half
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: twice baked potatoes, cheesy potatoes, comfort food, side dish, russet potatoes, creamy potatoes