Description
These Twice-Baked Potatoes are a comforting and delicious side dish featuring tender russet potatoes scooped out and mixed with creamy sour cream, butter, cheeses, and seasonings, then stuffed back and baked until golden and melty. Perfect for family dinners or a hearty appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes
Filling
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup bacon bits (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped chives for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the potatoes.
- Bake Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and prick them a few times with a fork. Place directly on the oven rack and bake for 50-60 minutes until the potatoes are tender when pierced.
- Scoop Out Potatoes: Remove potatoes from oven and allow to cool slightly. Slice each potato lengthwise in half and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a 1/4 inch shell intact to hold the filling. Place the scooped potato flesh into a large mixing bowl.
- Mash the Potatoes: Mash the scooped out potato using a fork or masher until smooth. Add sour cream, softened butter, milk or heavy cream, 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until creamy. Stir in bacon bits and chopped green onions if using.
- Stuff the Potatoes: Spoon the creamy mashed potato mixture back evenly into the potato shells. Top each stuffed potato with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese.
- Bake Again: Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese on top is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped chives, and serve hot for a delicious side or appetizer.
Notes
- Scrubbing the potatoes and poking holes helps the steam escape during baking.
- You can substitute milk with heavy cream for a richer filling.
- Adding bacon bits is optional but adds a nice savory touch.
- Chives add freshness and a mild onion flavor as garnish.
- Use a fork or potato masher to mash for a smooth texture; you can also use a mixer for fluffier potatoes.
