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Twice baked potatoes are a comfort food classic that elevate any meal with their rich, creamy, and cheesy goodness. The beauty of twice baked potatoes lies in their ability to combine crispy, roasted potato skins with a smooth, flavorful filling made from the potato’s flesh, sour cream, cheese, butter, and more. It’s the perfect side dish for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings.

Making twice baked potatoes may seem like a bit of a process, but the end result is always worth the effort. The first bake brings out the potatoes’ natural flavors, and the second bake allows for the creamy, cheesy filling to melt and crisp up in all the right ways. Whether you’re making them for a family meal or serving them to guests, these potatoes are sure to impress. Packed with flavor and texture, this dish can also be customized with various toppings, like bacon or scallions, to add a personal touch.

If you’ve never tried twice baked potatoes, you’re in for a treat. Let’s dive into how you can easily master this recipe and make perfect twice baked potatoes every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Double the Flavor

Twice baked potatoes combine the crispiness of the skin with the creamy, cheesy, and buttery filling, giving you two distinct textures in every bite.

2. Versatile

This recipe is highly adaptable. You can add or substitute ingredients like different cheeses, herbs, or proteins to create your own twist on the classic recipe.

3. Perfect for Meal Prep

Once baked, twice baked potatoes can be stored and reheated, making them a perfect make-ahead dish for busy weeknights or special events.

4. Great for Entertaining

These potatoes look impressive on any table, making them a great choice for family gatherings or dinner parties. Everyone loves a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

5. Customizable Toppings

You can top your twice baked potatoes with anything from crispy bacon bits to fresh chives, giving you endless opportunities to personalize your dish.

Ingredients

Russet potatoes (large, firm)
Olive oil
Salt
Sour cream
Butter
Monterey Jack cheese (finely shredded)
Cheddar cheese (finely shredded; reserve ¼ cup for topping)
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Milk (use as needed for desired creaminess)
Bacon (cooked until crispy and chopped)
Scallion (thinly sliced for garnish)

Variations

Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like Gouda, cream cheese, or Gruyere for a unique flavor twist.
Spicy Kick: Add a bit of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy bite.
Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add more vegetables such as sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted garlic for a savory, vegetarian-friendly version.
Herb-Infused: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley into the filling for an herby flavor boost.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly, scrubbing off any dirt. Pat them dry, then rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Step 3: Bake the Potatoes

Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the skins are crisp and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Let Potatoes Cool Slightly

Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes until you can handle them.

Step 5: Scoop Out the Flesh

Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh from the potato halves, leaving about a ¼-inch border to maintain the shape. Place the scooped-out potato flesh into a large mixing bowl.

Step 6: Make the Filling

Mash the scooped potato flesh with butter, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and ¼ cup of milk. Continue adding milk until the mixture reaches your desired creaminess. Stir in the Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese (saving ¼ cup of cheddar cheese for topping).

Step 7: Refill the Potato Skins

Spoon the cheesy potato filling back into the hollowed potato skins, packing it in tightly.

Step 8: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top of each stuffed potato. Add the chopped bacon for extra flavor and texture.

Step 9: Bake Again

Place the stuffed 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.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle with thinly sliced scallions for a burst of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Firm Potatoes: Choose large, firm russet potatoes for the best results, as they have the right texture for baking and scooping.
Bake in a Single Layer: Arrange the potatoes on the oven rack or a baking sheet so that they bake evenly and crisp up nicely.
Avoid Overcooking: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes during the first bake. You want the skins to be crisp, but the flesh should remain soft.
Adjust Creaminess: Add milk slowly to the mashed potato filling to achieve the texture you prefer. For a richer result, use half-and-half instead of milk.
Extra Toppings: Top with extra bacon bits, sour cream, or shredded cheese for an indulgent touch.

How to Serve

Twice baked potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of meals. Serve them alongside steaks, grilled chicken, or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner. They also make a great addition to holiday meals, like Thanksgiving or Christmas, where they can shine as the star side dish. For a fun twist, serve them as a main dish with a side salad.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Twice baked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing

To freeze twice baked potatoes, place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

To reheat, bake the potatoes in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, though the texture won’t be as crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes?

While russet potatoes are ideal due to their texture and size, you can substitute with Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different flavor profile.

2. Can I make twice baked potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes up to the point of the second bake. Store them in the fridge, and then bake them when you’re ready to serve.

3. How do I make my potatoes extra creamy?

Add more sour cream or a little more milk until the filling reaches the desired creaminess.

4. Can I use different cheeses?

Absolutely! Monterey Jack, cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyere all work wonderfully in this recipe.

5. Can I make these potatoes without bacon?

Yes, you can skip the bacon for a vegetarian option or replace it with sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or other vegetables.

6. How can I make these potatoes spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or some finely chopped jalapeños to the potato filling for a spicy kick.

7. Can I freeze twice baked potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze them after the second bake. Just reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

8. How do I prevent the potato skins from getting soggy?

Make sure the potatoes are thoroughly baked during the first step, and avoid overstuffing them to maintain the texture of the skin.

9. Can I prepare the filling in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and store it in the fridge for up to a day before stuffing the potatoes.

10. How do I get the potatoes extra crispy?

Broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to ensure a crispy top.

Conclusion

Twice baked potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining the crispy skin of a baked potato with a creamy, cheesy filling that’s out of this world. Whether you’re making them for a casual weeknight meal or a special occasion, these potatoes are sure to impress. The flexibility of the recipe allows you to customize it to your liking, and the result is always a delicious, crowd-pleasing dish. Follow this guide for the ultimate twice baked potato experience, and get ready for a dish that will become a family favorite!