Contents
Introduction
Twice baked potatoes are a comforting and delicious side dish that can elevate any meal. With a creamy filling and a crispy exterior, they are perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. This recipe from Love and Lemons combines the classic flavors of cheddar cheese and garlic, making them irresistible.
Ingredients
4 large russet potatoes
Extra-virgin olive oil
½ cup milk
½ cup sour cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, grated
1 teaspoon sea salt, plus more for sprinkling
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 cup grated cheddar cheese
½ cup chopped green onions
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour and 15 minutes
Total Time
1 hour and 30 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Prick each potato a few times with a fork. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and rub with olive oil.
3. Bake the potatoes: Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork.
4. Cool and halve the potatoes: Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. When they are cool enough to handle, slice each one in half lengthwise.
5. Scoop out the flesh: Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh from the center of each potato half, leaving a ¼-inch border around the edges.
6. Season the skins: Sprinkle the insides of the empty potato skins with salt.
7. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine the scooped-out potato flesh, milk, sour cream, butter, grated garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
8. Fill the potato skins: Spoon the creamy potato mixture back into the potato skins.
9. Add cheese and bake again: Top each filled potato with grated cheddar cheese. Bake for 15 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and beginning to brown.
10. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve.
Enjoy your delicious Twice Baked Potatoes!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Prepare the potatoes
Prick each potato a few times with a fork. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and rub with olive oil.
Bake the potatoes
Bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork.
Cool and halve the potatoes
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. When they are cool enough to handle, slice each one in half lengthwise.
Scoop out the flesh
Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh from the center of each potato half, leaving a ¼-inch border around the edges.
Season the skins
Sprinkle the insides of the empty potato skins with salt.
Prepare the filling
In a large bowl, combine the scooped-out potato flesh, milk, sour cream, butter, grated garlic, sea salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
Fill the potato skins
Spoon the creamy potato mixture back into the potato skins.
Add cheese and bake again
Top each filled potato with grated cheddar cheese. Bake for 15 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and beginning to brown.
Garnish and serve
Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve.
Notes
Choosing potatoes
Use large russet potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
Customizing the filling
Feel free to add diced cooked bacon, broccoli, or other vegetables to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
Storage tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best results.
Cook techniques
Oven Baking
Oven baking involves cooking food by surrounding it with hot air. For Twice Baked Potatoes, preheating the oven ensures even cooking and browning.
Pricking Potatoes
Pricking potatoes before baking allows steam to escape during cooking, preventing them from bursting in the oven.
Mashed Filling
Mashing creates a creamy texture for the potato filling. Use a fork or potato masher to blend the ingredients until smooth.
Seasoning
Seasoning the potato skins and filling enhances flavor. Use sea salt and freshly ground black pepper for the best taste.
Layering Toppings
Adding cheese on top before the final baking ensures that it melts beautifully and creates a golden crust.
Garnishing
Garnishing with green onions adds freshness and visual appeal to the Twice Baked Potatoes before serving.
FAQ
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, while russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture, you can use Yukon gold or other varieties, though they may yield a creamier filling.
Can I make these potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potato skins ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator before baking them with cheese.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can be used as substitutes for sour cream, maintaining a similar creamy texture.
Can I freeze Twice Baked Potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the filled potatoes. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and bake them directly from the freezer when ready to serve.
How do I reheat Twice Baked Potatoes?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, to maintain their texture.
Conclusion
Twice Baked Potatoes are a delightful dish that combines the comforting flavors of baked potatoes with creamy fillings and a cheesy topping. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish for gatherings. The combination of rich ingredients creates a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes
Add cooked and crumbled bacon, sour cream, and extra cheese for a loaded version. Top with additional green onions for a burst of flavor.
Vegetarian Twice Baked Potatoes
Incorporate sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and feta cheese into the filling for a nutritious and flavorful twist.
Spicy Southwest Twice Baked Potatoes
Mix in black beans, corn, diced jalapeños, and pepper jack cheese for a spicy southwest kick. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
Buffalo Chicken Twice Baked Potatoes
Fold in shredded cooked chicken mixed with buffalo sauce and blue cheese for a zesty and hearty option.
Herb and Garlic Twice Baked Potatoes
Enhance the flavor by adding fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley along with roasted garlic for an aromatic filling.
