The Ultimate Guide to Making Perfect Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice baked potatoes are the epitome of comfort food – soft and creamy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and loaded with delicious fillings. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, these potatoes are a crowd-pleaser at every meal. The creamy interior, infused with sour cream, butter, cheese, and spices, pairs perfectly with the crispy skins for a satisfying bite every time. By baking the potatoes twice, you ensure that the skins become irresistibly crispy, while the inside stays fluffy and indulgent.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to make perfect twice-baked potatoes. From selecting the best potatoes to ensuring that the filling is creamy and flavorful, we’ll share all the tips you need for a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, enjoying a casual family meal, or preparing a comforting side dish for a weeknight dinner, twice-baked potatoes are the ideal choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Twice-baked potatoes offer a perfect balance of textures, with a crispy skin and a rich, creamy interior. The combination of Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses creates a deliciously cheesy filling, while the sour cream and butter add a creamy, indulgent texture. The addition of crispy bacon and fresh scallions elevates the dish with savory flavors and a satisfying crunch. This dish is customizable, so feel free to add or omit ingredients according to your preferences. Whether you serve them alongside a main dish or enjoy them on their own, twice-baked potatoes are sure to be a hit with everyone.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 4 russet potatoes (large, firm potatoes)
• Olive oil (for coating the potatoes)
• Salt (to sprinkle on the potatoes before baking)
• ⅓ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese (finely shredded)
• 1 cup cheddar cheese (finely shredded, reserve ¼ cup for topping)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼-⅓ cup milk (use as needed for desired creaminess)
• 2 slices bacon (cooked until crispy and chopped)
• 1 scallion (thinly sliced for garnish)

Variations

Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

For an extra indulgent twist, you can load your twice-baked potatoes with additional toppings like sour cream, chives, or more crispy bacon. You could also add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and texture.

Spicy Twice Baked Potatoes

Add a bit of heat by mixing in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the filling. For an extra kick, top with a dollop of spicy ranch dressing or sriracha.

Vegetarian Twice Baked Potatoes

Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly option and load your potatoes with fresh veggies like sautéed bell peppers, onions, and spinach. You can also experiment with adding different cheese blends for a unique flavor.

BBQ Twice Baked Potatoes

Add some BBQ flavor by incorporating shredded cooked chicken or pulled pork into the filling. Top with BBQ sauce, extra cheese, and crispy onions for a smoky, savory twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly, then coat them lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Scoop Out the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are baked and cooled slightly, slice them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the soft potato flesh, leaving about a ¼-inch border of potato around the skin to maintain the shape. Be careful not to tear the skins.

Step 3: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mash the scooped-out potato flesh with a fork or potato masher. Add the sour cream, butter, Monterey Jack cheese, cheddar cheese (reserve ¼ cup for topping), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined and smooth. Gradually add milk to achieve your desired creaminess. Stir in the chopped crispy bacon.

Step 4: Fill the Potato Skins

Spoon the creamy potato mixture back into the empty potato skins, dividing the filling evenly among the potatoes. Be generous with the filling to create a mound on top of each potato skin.

Step 5: Bake Again

Place the filled potatoes back on a baking sheet and sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese on top of each potato. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops are golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and garnish with freshly sliced scallions for added color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Choosing the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice for twice-baked potatoes because of their thick skins and fluffy interior. They hold up well during the second baking and provide the perfect texture.
• Don’t overcook the first bake: Be sure to bake the potatoes until they are tender, but not too soft. Overbaking them can cause the skins to become too thin and tear during the second bake.
• Customize the filling: Feel free to add any mix-ins you like. Some great additions include sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even cooked sausage for added flavor.
• Use a potato ricer for a smoother filling: If you prefer a super smooth filling, use a potato ricer or food mill to mash the potatoes. This will result in a creamier texture without lumps.

How to Serve

Twice-baked potatoes are a versatile side dish that can accompany a variety of meals. Serve them alongside grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad. They also make a hearty addition to a barbecue spread or a comfort food feast. For a lighter meal, you can serve them with a side of steamed vegetables or a light soup. These potatoes can also be enjoyed on their own for a satisfying snack or lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover twice-baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. The potatoes may lose some crispiness, but the filling will remain creamy and flavorful.

Freezing

If you want to make these ahead of time, twice-baked potatoes freeze wonderfully. After the second bake, allow the potatoes to cool completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.

Reheating

To reheat leftover or frozen twice-baked potatoes, place them on a baking sheet and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes if they’re refrigerated, or 30-40 minutes if frozen. You can also microwave them, though the texture may be a bit softer.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, Swiss, or provolone would work well, or you can use a blend of your favorites.

2. Can I make these potatoes without sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or use extra butter and milk for a creamier texture.

3. Can I prepare these potatoes in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes up to the second bake. After filling the skins with the creamy filling, store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them for the second time.

4. Can I add vegetables to the filling?

Yes, sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers make great additions to the filling. Just be sure to drain any excess moisture to keep the potatoes from becoming soggy.

5. Can I use different types of potatoes?

Russet potatoes work best for twice-baked potatoes due to their texture, but you can use other types like Yukon Gold potatoes if you prefer a creamier texture.

6. Can I add more protein to the filling?

Yes, you can add cooked sausage, chicken, or ground beef to the filling for a more substantial meal.

7. How do I make the skin crispy?

Ensure that the potato skins are properly coated with olive oil and salt before the first bake. This will help achieve a nice, crispy skin during the second bake.

8. Can I make these potatoes gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check the ingredients of any store-bought items like sour cream or bacon for hidden gluten.

9. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?

Yes, you can use store-bought pre-cooked bacon for convenience, but cooking your own bacon adds a richer flavor and crispiness.

10. How can I make these potatoes spicier?

Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the filling for a spicy kick. You can also top with a spicy sauce, like sriracha or hot sauce, for extra heat.

Conclusion

Making perfect twice-baked potatoes is easier than you might think, and the result is a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re preparing them as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. With the flexibility to customize the filling and toppings, you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting classic!

Print