Twice-baked potatoes transform a simple, ordinary baked potato into a delightful culinary experience. This dish is a harmonious blend of a loaded baked potato and creamy mashed potatoes, creating a rich and indulgent side that elevates any meal. These delicious potatoes are my favorite side dish to a medium rare tenderloin steak or Cod Au Gratin– together it is a gourmet presentation. Their versatility is impressive as well. They complement a wide variety of meats, making them an ideal side for nearly any main course.
I vividly recall the first time my mom prepared these delicious potatoes when I was a little girl. I sat at the dinner table, eyes wide with wonder, thinking, “Holy cow! Mom is like a gourmet chef! These potatoes look so fancy!” Just like she did all those years ago, you can impress your family and friends with this delightful recipe.
Health Benefits of Potatoes
Beyond their taste, potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. They provide a wealth of vitamin A, vitamin B, and vitamin C, along with key minerals such as potassium, iron, and phosphorus. The starch in potatoes is a type of resistant starch, which means it doesn’t break down easily during digestion. This characteristic allows the vitamins and minerals to be absorbed effectively in the lower digestive system, offering benefits such as reduced inflammation and improved nutrient absorption. For additional information regarding the amazing health benefits of potatoes, see 11 Incredible Benefits Of Potato Nutrition | Organic Facts.
Additionally, potatoes are budget-friendly and incredibly filling, making them a staple in many households.
Twice Baked Potato Preparation, Servings, and Storage
Preparing twice-baked potatoes is a straightforward process, adding to their appeal. The initial baking of the potatoes and the bacon can be done up to three days in advance. This allows for convenient meal prep. This recipe yields four generous servings and can easily be doubled to accommodate a larger gathering. These delectable potatoes are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when they’re warm and fluffy. However, leftovers can also be refrigerated for up to three days in an airtight container, ensuring that the deliciousness lingers on.
Other Amazing potato side dish recipes:
Explore the world of potatoes further with other amazing potato side dish recipes that can enhance your dining experience!
Twice Baked Potatoes
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Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 Baking potatoes (Large)
- 1 tsp Olive oil
- 2 strips Bacon
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 1/4 cup Milk
- 1/4 cup Sour cream
- 1/4 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Sea Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup Green onions (sliced)
Instructions
Standard Baked Potato
- Preheat oven to 375℉
- Wash the potatoes and pierce the potatoes several times with a fork to allow steam to release while cooking.
- Coat the potatoes with olive oil.
- Bake for one hour.
- Once the potatoes are baked, remove from the oven and allow to cool for about 30 minutes.
Making the Bacon
- Cook the bacon until crispy. This can be done on the stove in a skillet or in the oven. I prefer to bake the bacon because it seems to be less mess.
- Once the bacon is crispy, place on a paper towel lined plate.
Putting it all together!
- Preheat the oven to 375℉
- Cut the potatoes in half long ways so that you have 4 pieces. Place these on a sheet pan.
- Carefully scoop the middle out of the potatoes and place the flesh into a medium sized mixing bowl. Return the potato skins/shells to the sheet pan. *Try to leave about ¼ inch of potato flesh all around the outside of the potato. This is the vessel that will hold the creamy potatoes inside. If you take too much, it will hold less structure. If you don't take enough, there will be less of the loaded mashed potato inside.
- Add the butter, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper to the mixing bowl.
- Using a hand mixer, beat the ingredients together until very creamy and there are no longer any chunks of potato.
- Using a rubber spatula, fold in HALF of the shredded cheese, half of the bacon, and half of the green onions.
- Divide the mashed potato mixture into each of the potato shells.
- Sprinkle remaining cheese, bacon, and green onions on top of the potatoes.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the inside of the potatoes are piping hot at 165℉.
Nutrition
