ADVERTISEMENT
Instructions:
1. Bake the Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack (or use a baking sheet) and bake for 45–60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly until they’re easy to handle.
2. Prepare the Potato Filling:
While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the creamy filling. Slice each baked potato in half lengthwise. Scoop out the soft potato flesh with a spoon, leaving about a 1/4-inch border around the edges to maintain the shape of the potato skin.
Place the scooped-out potato flesh in a large bowl. Add the sour cream, butter, and milk. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. You can adjust the milk and butter amounts based on how creamy you want the filling.
3. Add Seasoning and Cheese:
Mix in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, saving a little to sprinkle on top later if desired.
If you’re adding crispy bacon bits, now’s the time to stir them in for that savory, smoky kick.
4. Stuff the Potatoes:
Scoop the creamy potato filling back into the potato skins, pressing it in gently to pack the filling. If you like your stuffed potatoes extra cheesy, you can top each one with some shredded mozzarella or additional cheddar cheese.
5. Bake Again:
Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and return them to the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the potatoes are heated through.
For an extra crispy top, you can broil them for 1-2 minutes, but keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once the potatoes are out of the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped chives or green onions for a burst of color and freshness. Serve them immediately while they’re hot and cheesy!
Tips for the Perfect Stuffed Potatoes:
- Customize Your Fillings: Stuffed potatoes are incredibly versatile. You can add any of your favorite toppings or ingredients, like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even cooked ground beef or sausage. The possibilities are endless!
- Use Leftovers: Leftover vegetables or meats make a perfect addition to the potato filling. You can easily transform them into a delicious stuffed potato without wasting food.
- Make Ahead: You can prep the stuffed potatoes a day ahead, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. This makes them a great option for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make a batch of these stuffed potatoes and freeze them for later. Just bake them until the filling is set, and then store them in an airtight container in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake them straight from frozen, adding a little extra time in the oven.
Why You’ll Love These Stuffed Potatoes:
- Comfort Food at Its Best: The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, melty cheese, and savory bacon hits all the right notes. It’s the perfect dish to satisfy your comfort food cravings.
- Super Customizable: Whether you’re a fan of extra cheese, loaded with veggies, or prefer your potatoes with a protein punch, stuffed potatoes are endlessly adaptable to your tastes.
- Great for All Occasions: Serve these stuffed potatoes at a family dinner, a potluck, or even as a party appetizer. They’re always a hit!
- Satisfying and Hearty: These potatoes are filling enough to be a meal on their own or a tasty side dish. Either way, everyone will leave the table full and happy.
Final Thoughts:
Stuffed potatoes are the kind of dish that brings people together. It’s simple to make, can be customized in countless ways, and always delivers on flavor. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a crowd-pleasing side, this recipe is a winner.
So next time you have a batch of russet potatoes sitting in your pantry, turn them into these irresistible stuffed delights. Your taste buds—and everyone else at the table—will thank you!
ADVERTISEMENT
