Cheesy Loaded Twice-Baked Potatoes

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A cheesy and loaded twice-baked potato recipe that's perfect for any night of the week. Find out how to make this delicious dish with just a few simple ingredients!

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If you're looking for the perfect side dish to complement your main course, look no further than this cheesy potato dish. Combining fluffy baked potato with cheese and crispy bacon will satisfy any craving.

These delicious spuds are a classic comfort food that everyone will love. With their crisp exterior and soft interior filled with savory goodness, these potatoes will quickly become a favorite side dish for one or two.

Ingredients

You will only need a few ingredients to make the perfect cheesy loaded twice baked potatoes. Russet or Idaho are the best baking potatoes to use for this recipe.

Here is a list of the ingredients you will need:

baking potatoes
bacon pieces
sour cream
milk
butter
salt and pepper
shredded Cheddar cheese
chives

For quantities, scroll down to the recipe card.

Instructions

Once you have all your ingredients ready, preheat your oven to 350°F. Then, prepare your potatoes by scrubbing them clean with a brush under running water.

Pierce the potatoes with a fork.

Bake the potatoes until fork-tender, and set aside to cool.

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat until crispy, drain, and set aside.

Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise, and scoop the flesh into a bowl, saving the skins.

Add sour cream, milk, butter, salt, pepper, half the cheese, and half the chives to the potato flesh.

Mix the added ingredients into the potato flesh with a hand mixer until creamy.

Spoon the mashed potato mixture into each potato skin and top with cheese, chives, and bacon.

Place the potato halves in a baking dish and bake until the cheese is melted and lightly browned.

Variations

For those looking for a healthier twist on this classic recipe, try swapping out the sour cream and cheese with Greek yogurt and a low-fat cheddar. This will provide a lighter option that still packs plenty of flavor.

If you're feeling adventurous, experiment with different types of cheeses to mix up the flavor profile of this dish. Gouda or smoked cheddar can add an extra smoky element that pairs well with the bacon and scallions.

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms for an earthy, umami taste. You could add some fried onions on top for more texture and flavor. Or, top them with jalapeños and salsa for an extra kick.

No matter how you customize your cheesy loaded twice-baked potatoes, it's sure to be a winner at dinner!

Tips

If you're looking for a side dish that's rich, indulgent, and perfect every time, look no further than cheesy baked potatoes. These savory spuds are easy to make and always impress guests with their crispy skin and creamy center.

Here are some tips to ensure your potatoes turn out perfectly:

Choose the right potato. Russet potatoes work best for this recipe because they have a high starch content, making them fluffier when baked.
Bake evenly. Pierce the potatoes several times with a fork before baking so they cook evenly throughout.
Let cool before handling. Once your potatoes are done baking, let them cool for at least 10 minutes before handling them to avoid burning yourself.
Scoop carefully. When scooping out the potato flesh, be careful not to break the skin or leave too much behind.
Mix thoroughly. Mash the scooped-out potato flesh well with the other ingredients for an even flavor.
Perfect toppings. Top your potatoes with other preferred toppings for extra flavor and texture!

Follow these simple tips, and you'll have deliciously cheesy loaded twice-baked potatoes every time – guaranteed!

Serving suggestions

These cheesy baked potatoes are perfect as a side dish for just about any meal. They also work well as a main course if you add some protein like grilled chicken or steak strips on top.

They pair perfectly with grilled meats like carne asada or BBQ boneless chicken thighs. The bacon can also be left out to serve as a vegetarian option alongside roasted vegetables or salad.

And if you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with different cheeses or toppings like jalapeños or salsa for an extra kick!

Storage

Twice-baked potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To store, allow the potatoes to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.

To reheat, bake on a baking sheet at 350°F for 15 minutes or until heated throughout. If you want a crispier texture, place it under the broiler for a minute or two after baking.

FAQ

Can the potatoes be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, they can be made ahead of time and stored before baking. The prepared potatoes can be wrapped in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerated for up to three days. When ready to serve, unwrap and bake them in the oven until heated throughout.

What potato is best for twice-baked potatoes?

The best potato to use is russet. This type of potato has a higher starch content than other varieties, which makes it ideal for baking and mashing. Additionally, its skin is thicker than most potatoes, so it is for creating a delicious twice-baked potato dish.

What makes loaded potatoes so good?

The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, savory toppings, and melted cheese is hard to beat!

Twice baked potato cut in half on plate.

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Vegetarian potato soup can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.
Frozen sweet potato fries in air fryer are made with minimal effort.

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