Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe
Overview
Twice Baked Potatoes are a comforting and versatile dish, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or a cozy family meal. They combine the earthy goodness of baked potatoes with creamy, cheesy fillings, creating a dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Recipe Information
- Name: Twice Baked Potatoes
- Total Time: 1 hour 2 minutes
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Recipe Category: Potato
- Keywords: Cheese, Vegetable, Kid Friendly, Weeknight, Broil/Grill, Oven, Less than 4 Hours, Easy, Inexpensive
Ingredients
- 4-5 medium baking potatoes
- 3 tablespoons low-fat margarine
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup light sour cream
- 1 cup reduced-fat American cheese, shredded
- 1 green onion top, chopped
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 251.5
- Total Fat: 7.8g
- Saturated Fat: 4.1g
- Cholesterol: 20.1mg
- Sodium: 938.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 40.6g
- Fiber: 3.3g
- Sugar: 2.6g
- Protein: 6.2g
Instructions
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Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Prepare Potatoes: Wash the potatoes thoroughly and poke each one 4-5 times with a fork or knife.
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Wrap Potatoes: Half-wrap each potato in squares of tin foil, leaving an opening at the top.
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Prepare Margarine Mixture: In a small bowl, stir together melted margarine, garlic powder, and salt.
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Bake Potatoes: Pour the margarine mixture into the foil openings of the potatoes, ensuring they are sealed securely. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes, or until they are soft and tender.
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Prepare Filling: While the potatoes are baking, in a small non-stick saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the sour cream and mushroom soup. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth, stirring frequently for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
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Prepare Potato Shells: Once the potatoes are baked, carefully remove them from the oven and open the foil squares. Using a knife, cut a groove into the top of each potato (be cautious, as they will be hot). Scoop out the insides of the potatoes with a spoon, placing them into a large bowl. Leave about 1/2 inch of potato on the walls of the shell to maintain its structure.
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Mix and Refill: Mash or whip together the potato insides with the sour cream and cheese mixture until creamy. Optionally, reserve some of the sour cream mixture to drizzle on top later. Refill each potato shell with the creamy mixture.
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Broil: Place the filled potato shells on a broiler pan. Broil on the lowest rack of the oven for 3-5 minutes, or until the tops are lightly browned and crispy.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish each potato with chopped green onion tops, if desired. Serve hot as a delicious side dish or a satisfying main course.
Serving Suggestions
Twice Baked Potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes. They can be served alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a standalone dish for a comforting weeknight meal. Their creamy texture and savory flavors make them a hit with both kids and adults, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Tips for Success
- Ensure potatoes are fully cooked before scooping out the insides to ensure a fluffy texture.
- Experiment with different cheese blends or toppings like bacon bits or chives for added flavor variations.
- Be cautious when handling hot potatoes and use oven mitts or towels to protect your hands.
Conclusion
Twice Baked Potatoes are a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. With creamy, cheesy filling nestled inside fluffy baked potato shells, they’re perfect for any occasion from family dinners to casual gatherings. Enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures with this simple yet satisfying recipe!