Twice baked potatoes are a delicious and satisfying side dish that can elevate any meal. This recipe features fluffy potato flesh mixed with creamy cheese, sour cream, and seasonings, all baked in the potato skin for a crispy finish.
Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, these twice baked potatoes are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings like bacon, chives, or additional cheese.
Overview of Twice Baked Potatoes
Twice baked potatoes stand out as a delightful side dish, perfect for any occasion. Their unique preparation method results in a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with a creamy, cheesy filling.
These potatoes are not just a treat for the taste buds; they also offer a satisfying texture that makes them a favorite at gatherings. The combination of fluffy potato flesh with rich cheese and seasonings creates a comforting dish that pairs well with various entrees.
Preparation Steps
The process begins with selecting large russet potatoes, which are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy nature. After scrubbing and pricking them, they are baked until tender, allowing the natural flavors to develop.
Once cooled, the potatoes are halved, and the insides are carefully scooped out. This step is crucial as it creates a vessel for the creamy filling, which is made by mixing the potato flesh with cheese, sour cream, and seasonings.
Creating the Perfect Filling
The filling is where the magic happens. By combining the potato flesh with shredded cheddar cheese, butter, and spices, you achieve a rich and flavorful mixture. The addition of milk ensures a smooth texture, making it easy to spoon back into the potato skins.
Seasoning is key; garlic powder and onion powder add depth to the flavor profile, while salt and pepper enhance the overall taste. This mixture is then mounded back into the potato skins, ready for the second bake.
Baking to Perfection
The second baking phase is essential for achieving that golden-brown top. By returning the filled potatoes to the oven, the tops become crispy, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy filling.
During this time, the flavors meld together, and the aroma wafts through the kitchen, making it hard to resist. The result is a platter of twice baked potatoes that are visually appealing and incredibly appetizing.
Serving Suggestions
Once out of the oven, these potatoes can be garnished with chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color and added flavor. A side of sour cream is a perfect accompaniment, allowing guests to customize their servings.
These twice baked potatoes are versatile enough to complement a variety of main dishes, from grilled meats to hearty salads. They can also be served at parties or family dinners, making them a crowd-pleaser.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
Each serving of these twice baked potatoes offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures. With approximately 320 calories per potato, they provide a hearty side without overwhelming the meal.
With their creamy filling and crispy skin, these potatoes are not just a side dish; they are a delicious addition to any dining experience. Enjoying them fresh out of the oven is a treat that everyone will appreciate.
Delicious Twice Baked Potatoes
This recipe serves 6 and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish. The potatoes are baked twice to achieve a crispy exterior and a creamy, flavorful filling.
Ingredients
- 6 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes and prick them with a fork. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
- Prepare the Filling: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl, leaving a small border of potato in the skins.
- Mix the Filling: To the potato flesh, add the cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and well combined.
- Fill the Skins: Spoon the potato mixture back into the potato skins, mounding it slightly on top.
- Second Bake: Place the filled potatoes on a baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crispy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions or chives if desired. Serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Total Time: 90 minutes
- Servings: 6 potatoes
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 40g