Cheesy Twice Baked Potatoes

by
Print Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, offering a rich, indulgent side dish that’s sure to become the star of any meal. These potatoes are first baked to tender perfection, then scooped out and mashed with gooey cheese, sour cream, and savory seasonings. Once the filling is creamy and well-seasoned, it’s returned to the potato skins and baked again until golden and crispy on the outside. The result is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and a satisfying crunch.

The first time I made these, I was amazed at how easy they were to prepare for such a decadent dish. The aroma of the potatoes baking, combined with the melting cheese, made my kitchen smell like heaven. When they came out of the oven, golden and bubbling with cheese, they were an instant hit with everyone at the table.

What I love most about Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes is how versatile they are. You can customize the filling by adding crispy bacon, green onions, or even a sprinkle of garlic powder for an extra burst of flavor. They’re perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or as a hearty side to complement your main dish. No matter the occasion, these potatoes are always a crowd-pleaser!

Perfect for:

  • Holiday meals
  • Family dinners
  • BBQs and potlucks
  • Comfort food cravings
  • Dinner parties

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Cheesy Twice Baked Potatoes will become a favorite side dish:

  • Creamy and Cheesy Filling: The mashed potato filling is rich, creamy, and packed with cheese, making every bite indulgent.
  • Crispy Skin: The second bake ensures a perfectly crispy potato skin, providing a delightful contrast to the creamy interior.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients like bacon, chives, or garlic for extra flavor.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep them ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready, making them perfect for busy nights or special occasions.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: With their cheesy goodness and comforting flavors, these potatoes are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Preparation and Cooking Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Servings: 6 servings
  • Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
  • Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 25g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cheesy Twice Baked Potatoes:

  • 6 large russet potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2-3 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
  • 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

  • Russet Potatoes: Their starchy, fluffy texture makes them perfect for mashing and baking.
  • Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Offers a bold, tangy flavor that melts beautifully into the mashed potato filling.
  • Sour Cream and Butter: Add creaminess and richness to the mashed filling.
  • Bacon and Green Onions: These optional ingredients add a savory, crunchy element that enhances the overall flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bake the Potatoes:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and prick them a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.
  3. Bake the Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Cut the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato on the skin to maintain the shape.
  2. Mash the Potato Flesh: Place the scooped-out potato flesh in a large mixing bowl. Add the butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy.
  3. Add Mix-ins (Optional): Stir in crumbled bacon and chopped green onions, if using, for extra flavor.

Stuff the Potatoes:

  1. Fill the Skins: Spoon the mashed potato filling back into the empty potato skins, mounding it slightly on top. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top of each potato half.

Bake Again:

  1. Bake the Potatoes Again: Place the filled potatoes on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the skins are crispy.

How to Serve

  • As a Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or steak for a hearty and satisfying meal.
  • With Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
  • For a Special Occasion: These potatoes make a great side for holiday dinners, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
  • Topped with Extra Goodies: Add sour cream, chives, or a drizzle of gravy for added richness.

Additional Tips

  • Use a Potato Scoop: To make scooping the potato flesh easier, use a melon baller or potato scoop.
  • Don’t Overstuff the Skins: Keep the filling a little mounded to ensure the potato skins hold their shape.
  • Make Ahead Option: Prepare the potatoes up to the second bake, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until heated through.
  • Try Different Cheeses: Swap the cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a unique twist.
  • Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other mix-ins like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or shredded chicken for variety.

Recipe Variations

  1. Bacon and Cheddar Twice Baked Potatoes: Add extra bacon bits to the mashed filling for an even richer flavor.
  2. Broccoli and Cheese Twice Baked Potatoes: Stir in steamed broccoli and more cheese for a veggie-packed version.
  3. Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes: Mix in shredded cooked chicken and buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
  4. Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes: Top with additional sour cream, green onions, and crumbled bacon.
  5. Pesto Twice Baked Potatoes: Add a couple of tablespoons of pesto to the mashed potatoes for a herby flavor.
  6. Tex-Mex Twice Baked Potatoes: Incorporate black beans, corn, and shredded cheese, and top with salsa and sour cream.
  7. Garlic Parmesan Twice Baked Potatoes: Mix roasted garlic and grated Parmesan into the mashed filling for an Italian twist.
  8. Sausage and Peppers Twice Baked Potatoes: Stir in cooked sausage and sautéed bell peppers for a savory bite.
  9. Crispy Onion Twice Baked Potatoes: Add fried onion strings on top of the cheese for a crispy finish.
  10. Vegan Twice Baked Potatoes: Substitute dairy with plant-based butter, sour cream, and vegan cheese for a vegan-friendly version.

Freezing and Storage

  • Freezing: Assemble the potatoes through the second bake, then let them cool completely. Wrap each potato half in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.
  • Storage: Store leftover twice-baked potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy texture.

Special Equipment

  • Baking Sheet: For roasting the potatoes evenly in the oven.
  • Sharp Knife: To carefully cut and scoop out the potato flesh without damaging the skin.
  • Potato Scoop or Melon Baller: A handy tool for easily removing the insides of the potatoes in a clean and uniform way.
  • Mixing Bowl: To combine the scooped potato flesh with cheese, sour cream, butter, and other ingredients.
  • Hand Mixer or Potato Masher: To mash the potato filling smoothly, ensuring it mixes well with all the creamy ingredients.
  • Oven-Safe Dish: A baking dish or casserole dish for placing the stuffed potatoes back in the oven for their second bake.
  • Pastry Bag or Ziploc Bag: For piping the mashed potato mixture into the potato skins neatly, especially if you want a fancy presentation.
  • Cheese Grater: To grate fresh cheese (cheddar or any variety you prefer) for better melting and flavor.
  • Basting Brush: To lightly brush the potato skins with butter or olive oil before the second baking to make them crispy.
  • Meat Thermometer: To ensure the potatoes are heated through to the perfect temperature before serving.

FAQ

  1. Can I make these potatoes ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble them a day before and bake them when ready to serve.
  2. Can I use other types of potatoes? While russet potatoes work best for twice-baked potatoes, you can use other starchy potatoes like Yukon golds.
  3. Can I use pre-cooked bacon? Yes, pre-cooked bacon is a quick and easy option for these potatoes.
  4. How do I make them spicier? Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
  5. Can I bake them in the microwave? You can microwave the potatoes for the first bake, but for the second bake, an oven is recommended for the crispy texture.

Conclusion

Cheesy Twice Baked Potatoes are a comforting, cheesy side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their creamy, flavorful filling and crispy potato skins, these potatoes are always a hit, whether served as a weeknight dinner side or as a standout dish at a special gathering.

Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, these twice-baked potatoes are packed with melted cheese, sour cream, butter, and savory seasonings. You can even add bacon, chives, or your favorite toppings to make them your own. The combination of rich, creamy filling and crispy potato skins makes each bite truly satisfying.

I can’t wait to see your Cheesy Twice Baked Potatoes! Snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d love to see how you make them. Don’t forget to share any tasty twists or variations in the comments. Happy baking!

Leave a Comment