Stuffed Potatoes
Stuffed potatoes are a classic comfort food that brings joy to any meal. With their fluffy insides filled with creamy cheese, savory meats, and aromatic herbs, these potatoes are versatile and can be customized to suit any palate. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish or the main attraction, stuffed potatoes are sure to be a hit at your dining table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that is easy to make and incredibly satisfying!
Ingredients
– 4 large Russet potatoes
– 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh herbs for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 stuffed potato) contains approximately:
– Calories: 350
– Protein: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 50g
– Fat: 15g
– Fiber: 5g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and prick them with a fork.
3. Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
4. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
5. Slice the top third of each potato and scoop out the insides into a bowl.
6. Mash the scooped potato with butter, sour cream, and half of the cheese.
7. Stir in the crumbled bacon, green onions, salt, and pepper.
8. Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins.
9. Top with the remaining cheese.
10. Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Alternative Ingredients
Feel free to substitute ingredients to suit your taste! You can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or replace bacon with mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
Serving and Pairings
Stuffed potatoes pair wonderfully with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or grilled meats. They make a perfect accompaniment to any hearty meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover stuffed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they are tightly wrapped.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not pricking the potatoes before baking can cause them to explode.
- Overbaking can lead to dry potatoes.
- Underseasoning the filling can result in bland flavor.
- Not letting the potatoes cool before handling can lead to burns.
- Using cold ingredients for the filling can affect texture.
Helpful Tips
- Choose potatoes that are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Experiment with different cheese types for varied flavors.
- For a spicy kick, add jalapeños to the filling.
- Garnish with fresh herbs just before serving for a pop of color.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture. Both varieties work well for stuffing.
How can I make stuffed potatoes vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon and add more vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the filling for a delicious vegetarian option.
How do I prevent the potatoes from being dry?
Make sure to add enough butter and sour cream to the filling. You can also cover the potatoes with foil while baking to retain moisture.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed potatoes a day ahead, store them in the fridge, and bake them just before serving.
What can I serve with stuffed potatoes?
Stuffed potatoes are versatile and pair well with a range of dishes, from grilled meats to a fresh garden salad.
Conclusion
Stuffed potatoes are not just a meal; they are an experience filled with flavor and comfort. Easy to customize and perfect for any occasion, this dish will surely become a favorite in your household. Enjoy creating your own version and share it with family and friends!

Stuffed Potatoes
Ingredients
- 4 large Russet potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar or your choice
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and prick them with a fork.
- Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for about 45 minutes, or until tender.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Slice the top third of each potato and scoop out the insides into a bowl.
- Mash the scooped potato with butter, sour cream, and half of the cheese.
- Stir in the crumbled bacon, green onions, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins.
- Top with the remaining cheese.
- Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.