Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe

Twice Baked Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish, transforming humble baked spuds into cheesy, creamy masterpieces, perfect for any family meal or get-together. Every mouthful here is packed with flavor, with crispy potato skins acting as the perfect vessel for a buttery, savory filling loaded with cheddar, bacon, and green onions. If you’re craving a crowd-pleaser that’s easier than it looks but always impressive, this Twice Baked Potatoes recipe will quickly become one of your top go-tos.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Twice Baked Potatoes is how just a handful of kitchen staples come together to create something utterly irresistible. Each ingredient below plays a star role, contributing to the creamy texture, golden top, or rich flavor in every bite.

• Russet potatoes (4 large, scrubbed and dried): Their starchy flesh and sturdy skin make them perfect for baking and twice baking.
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Brushing the skins ensures they get crispy and flavorful in the oven.
• Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness and helps create extra creamy mashed potato filling.
• Sour cream (½ cup): Dials up the tang and keeps the filling luxuriously smooth.
• Milk (¼ cup): Lightens the mixture without making it watery, so every bite is velvety.
• Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Offers a mellow garlicky flavor that infuses the whole dish.
• Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup, divided): Cheesy goodness inside and melty, golden topping on the outside.
• Bacon (4 slices, cooked and crumbled): Smoky, salty, and just the right amount of crunch in each scoop.
• Green onions (2, thinly sliced): Lively color and a mild onion kick to balance the richness.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning all those incredible flavors.

How to Make Twice Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Give your potatoes a good scrub and dry them well, then massage each one with a bit of olive oil. Line them up on a baking sheet (no need to wrap in foil) and roast for 45–60 minutes, until a fork sinks in easily and the skins feel fantastically crisp.

Step 2: Scoop Out the Centers

Let the baked potatoes cool for just a few minutes so you can handle them comfortably. Slice each in half lengthwise, then carefully scoop out the warm insides using a small spoon, leaving about a quarter-inch border. Try not to scoop too close to the edge; a sturdy shell is key for holding all that yummy filling!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Filling

Transfer the fluffy potato flesh into a big mixing bowl. Add the butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, along with a good pinch of salt and a crack of black pepper. Mash everything together until the filling is as smooth or as chunky as you like! Then, fold in half the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onions.

Step 4: Fill and Top the Potatoes

Spoon the cheesy potato mixture generously back into the potato shells. Pile it in so you get lovely, rustic mounds. Sprinkle each one with the remaining cheddar cheese for a glorious, golden finish once baked.

Step 5: The Second Bake

Slide your stuffed potatoes back onto the baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for another 15–20 minutes, until they’re heated through and the cheese on top is bubbling and slightly browned. Serve warm and savor every creamy, cheesy bite!

How to Serve Twice Baked Potatoes

Garnishes

Dress up your Twice Baked Potatoes with vibrant green onion slices, an extra sprinkle of cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, or even fresh herbs like parsley or chives. A light dusting of smoked paprika can add beautiful color and an extra layer of flavor.

Side Dishes

Twice Baked Potatoes play well with just about anything! They’re a classic with steaks, grilled chicken, turkey dinners, or even a centerpiece on a vegetarian spread. Pair them with a crisp salad or steamed green veggies to round out your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, slice the halves into thirds for fun, bite-sized appetizers. Or try a build-your-own potato bar: let everyone add their favorite toppings right before the second bake so each potato is personalized and perfect.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve got extra Twice Baked Potatoes, just let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to three days, still creamy and flavorful when reheated.

Freezing

These potatoes are freezer-friendly! Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then wrap individually or pack into a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep their taste for up to two months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat your potatoes in a 350°F oven until hot and bubbly—about 20 minutes for refrigerated, a bit longer from frozen. Skip the microwave if you can, as it may compromise the texture, but a few minutes at 50% power will still do in a pinch.

FAQs

Can I use another type Side Dish

Russet potatoes are the best choice for Twice Baked Potatoes thanks to their fluffy interior and sturdy skins, but you can swap in Yukon Golds for a slightly creamier, richer flavor. Just know that the skins won’t crisp up quite the same.

Can I make Twice Baked Potatoes vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply skip the bacon or swap it with vegetarian alternatives like smoked tempeh or a sprinkle of crispy fried shallots for that savory crunch.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Cheddar is classic for its bold flavor and meltability, but feel free to mix things up with Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a little blue cheese for a punchy twist.

How do I get really creamy filling?

The secret is letting your butter melt into the hot potatoes before adding sour cream and milk. Mash while still warm, and don’t overmix or it might turn gluey—just enough to blend everything together smoothly.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the potatoes up to the final bake, cover, and chill. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake them as directed—the second time!—until hot and golden on top.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a side that steals the show every single time, give these Twice Baked Potatoes a try. There’s just something magical about that creamy, cheesy filling nestled in a crispy potato shell. It’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again—so grab some potatoes, and let the deliciousness begin!

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