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Cozy Loaded Twice-Baked Potatoes with Sharp Cheddar

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These cozy loaded twice-baked potatoes with sharp cheddar combine fluffy potato filling with smoky bacon and melted sharp cheddar for a warm, comforting dinner that’s easy to make and crowd-pleasing.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium russet potatoes (6–7 oz each)
  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 170 g)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream (about 120 ml)
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash and dry the russet potatoes thoroughly. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork to prevent bursting.
  3. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until the skins are crisp and a fork slides in easily. Add 10 minutes if potatoes are larger.
  4. While the potatoes bake, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
  5. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes.
  6. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer to keep the skins sturdy.
  7. Mash the potato flesh with butter, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup (about 113 g) of shredded sharp cheddar, the green onions, and most of the crumbled bacon (reserve some for topping).
  8. Spoon the cheesy potato mixture back into the skins without mounding too high.
  9. Top each potato half with the remaining cheddar and bacon. Add a little extra green onion on top if desired.
  10. Return the potatoes to the oven on the baking sheet. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until the cheese is melted and golden.
  11. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a crispy cheese crust, broil the potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes but watch closely to prevent burning. If the filling is too thick, add a splash of milk before mixing. You can microwave potatoes first to speed up baking, then finish in the oven for crispness. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: twice-baked potatoes, loaded potatoes, sharp cheddar, bacon, comfort food, easy dinner, cozy meal

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/cozy-loaded-twice-baked-potatoes-with-sharp-cheddar-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-dinner/