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Crispy Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes

crispy cheesy twice-baked potatoes - featured image

A comforting and crowd-pleasing side dish featuring crispy potato skins filled with a creamy, cheesy mixture and baked to golden perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium russet potatoes (about 2 pounds / 900g)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (120ml)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese (shredded, about 100g)
  • 2 stalks green onions (thinly sliced)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste)
  • 1/2 cup bacon bits (optional, 75g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Scrub 4 medium russet potatoes clean and pat dry. Pierce each potato several times with a fork.
  3. Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for 50-60 minutes until skins are crisp and a fork slides in easily.
  4. Let the potatoes cool for about 10 minutes until they can be handled safely.
  5. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Using a spoon or small ice cream scoop, carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4-inch (6mm) shell intact.
  6. Transfer the potato flesh to a mixing bowl. Add softened butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  7. Mash and mix everything together until creamy but still slightly chunky.
  8. Fold in cooked bacon bits if using.
  9. Spoon the cheesy potato mixture back into the potato skins, piling it high.
  10. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top for a golden crust.
  11. Place the filled potatoes on a baking sheet. Drizzle skins lightly with olive oil.
  12. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for another 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and tops are golden brown.
  13. Let them cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy skins, brush with olive oil before the final bake and consider using a wire rack on the baking sheet. Avoid microwaving potatoes first to keep skins crispy. Do not over-mash the filling to prevent gummy texture. Freshly shred cheese for best melt and flavor. Filling can be prepared ahead and chilled before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: twice-baked potatoes, cheesy potatoes, crispy potatoes, side dish, comfort food, easy recipe