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Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Cook the Potatoes: Begin by washing and scrubbing the potatoes. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork. You can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes until tender, or microwave them for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Once cooked, allow them to cool slightly before handling.
- Mash the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, peel off the skins and mash the insides with a potato masher. Add the butter, milk, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Stir until everything is well combined. If desired, fold in the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Dough
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cut in the Butter: Add the cubed cold butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Milk: Gradually add the milk to the mixture, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a little more milk, one tablespoon at a time, until it comes together.
- Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead gently for about 1-2 minutes until smooth. Divide the dough into 6-8 even portions, depending on the size you want for your pockets.
Step 3: Assemble the Potato Pockets
- Roll Out the Dough: Roll each portion of dough into a circle or oval shape about 1/8-inch thick.
- Fill with Potato Mixture: Place a generous spoonful of the mashed potato filling in the center of each dough circle, making sure not to overfill.
- Seal the Pockets: Carefully fold the dough over the filling to form a half-moon shape or a square, depending on your preference. Pinch the edges together firmly to seal, making sure there are no gaps.
Step 4: Bake the Potato Pockets
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the filled pockets on a lined baking sheet. If desired, brush the tops of the pockets with a bit of melted butter to help them crisp up.
- Bake: Bake the pockets in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Add Final Touches
- Top with Cheese and Garnishes: Once the pockets are baked, remove them from the oven and top with extra shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for an extra indulgent touch.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Main Dish: Serve these loaded potato pockets with a side of green salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
- For a Snack: These pockets make a great appetizer or party snack. Serve with extra sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce for a crowd-pleasing treat.
- Customizable Add-Ins: Feel free to add other ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or diced ham to the filling for even more flavor.
Why You’ll Love These Loaded Baked Potato Pockets:
- Perfect for Meal Prep: These pockets store well in the fridge and can be reheated easily, making them perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
- Easy to Make: Despite the rich and indulgent flavor, these potato pockets are straightforward to prepare with simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
- Customizable: Adjust the fillings to your preferences—make them vegetarian, add more cheese, or skip the bacon for a healthier version. The possibilities are endless!
- Crispy Perfection: The baked dough gives each bite a satisfying crunch, while the creamy, cheesy potato filling delivers all the comfort you crave.
Conclusion:
Loaded Baked Potato Pockets are a delicious and fun twist on the classic baked potato. With a crispy, golden dough filled with creamy mashed potatoes, cheese, bacon, and all the delicious toppings you love, these pockets are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you enjoy them as a main dish, a snack, or an appetizer, they are the perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Try this recipe today and savor every bite of these indulgent and customizable loaded potato pockets!
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