Classic Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes

🥔 Classic Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes

Serves 4–6 (8 potato halves)

Ingredients

Potatoes

• 4 large russet potatoes (scrubbed clean)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• Salt (for skins)

Filling

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (softened)

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream (warm)

• 1½ cups shredded cheese
  (cheddar, sharp cheddar, or cheddar–Monterey Jack blend)

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• Optional:

  • ¼ tsp paprika

  • 2 tbsp cream cheese (extra creamy)

  • Chopped chives or green onions

Topping

• Extra shredded cheese (about ½ cup)

• Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

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🔥 Instructions

1. Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).

2. Dry potatoes thoroughly.

3. Rub skins with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt.

4. Place directly on oven rack or on a baking sheet.

5. Bake 50–60 minutes, until skins are crisp and a knife slides in easily.

6. Let cool 10 minutes (just enough to handle).

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2. Scoop & Mash

1. Slice each potato in half lengthwise.

2. Carefully scoop out the flesh into a bowl, leaving about ¼ inch of potato inside the skin to keep them sturdy.

3. Arrange hollowed skins on a baking dish.

4. Mash the potato flesh while hot with:

   • Butter

   • Sour cream

   • Warm milk

   • Salt, pepper, garlic powder

5. Fold in shredded cheese (don’t overmix — fluffy is key).

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3. Fill the Skins

1. Spoon or pipe the mixture back into the potato skins.

2. Slightly mound the tops (they should look generous and creamy).

3. Sprinkle extra cheese on top.

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4. Bake Again

1. Return to oven at 375°F (190°C).

2. Bake 20–25 minutes, until heated through.

3. Broil 2–3 minutes at the end for golden, bubbly tops (watch closely).

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5. Finish & Serve

• Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives.

• Serve hot and creamy inside with crispy skins outside 😍

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✨ Pro Tips

• Russet potatoes only — they’re starchy and fluffy.

• Warm milk prevents gummy potatoes.

• For extra smooth filling, use a hand mixer for 10–15 seconds.

• Make ahead: assemble, refrigerate, bake when needed.

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🔄 Variations (if you want to level up)

• Bacon & Cheddar: Add crispy bacon bits

• Garlic Parmesan: Swap cheddar for parmesan + roasted garlic

• Loaded Style: Sour cream, bacon, cheese, green onions

• Spicy: Add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne