Indulge in the creamy and flavorful taste of Chef John's Twice Baked Potatoes. This classic American dish is made with baked potatoes that are hollowed out, mashed with a rich mixture of ingredients, and then baked again until golden and delicious. It's the perfect side dish for any meal or a comforting main course on its own. These twice baked potatoes are easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings and seasonings. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply want a delicious comfort food, this recipe will never disappoint.
Ingredients
- 4 large baking potatoes
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub the potatoes clean and pierce them all over with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a knife.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Cut off the top third of each potato lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the insides, leaving a 1/4 inch thick shell.
- In a bowl, mash the potato flesh with the sour cream, grated cheddar cheese, butter, chopped green onions, and half of the crumbled bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spoon the potato mixture back into the potato shells, mounding it slightly.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon on top.
- Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired and serve hot.
Interesting Facts
Twice baked potatoes are believed to have originated in the United States and have become a popular dish across the country.
The outer skin of the twice baked potatoes becomes crispy and adds a delicious texture to the creamy filling.
You can experiment with different toppings such as shredded cheese, bacon bits, chives, or even a dollop of sour cream.