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There’s a certain comfort that comes with a warm, fully loaded baked potato—especially when it’s twice-baked, like the ones I’m about to share with you. The delightful aroma of crispy bacon mingling with creamy sour cream and cheese takes me back to family gatherings where plates piled high with these stuffed jacket potatoes were the star of the show. When I first discovered this recipe, I knew instantly it would become a staple for game nights and holiday feasts alike.

Imagine the crunch of the potato skin giving way to a rich, velvety filling that makes you smile with every spoonful. These twice-baked potatoes effortlessly combine simplicity with indulgent flavor, and they’re adaptable enough to please kids and adults alike. Whether paired with grilled meats or served as a hearty side to complement a cozy casserole, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home. And trust me, the only hard part about it is deciding how many you can eat in one sitting! So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into creating this ultimate comfort food experience.

Why Choose This Twice Baked Potato Recipe?

Creamy and crispy, this recipe transforms humble potatoes into a gourmet delight.
Kid-Friendly and loved by all ages, it’s a sure hit at family gatherings.
Effortless Preparation means you can focus on enjoying your meal, not just cooking it!
Versatile for any occasion, these can complement grilled steaks, cozy casseroles, or be a star at holiday dinners.
Make-Ahead Option lets you prep ahead of time, so you have more time to spend with your guests.
Dive into making these twice-baked potatoes and experience comfort food at its finest!

Twice Baked Potato Recipe Ingredients

For the Potatoes

Russet Potatoes – Perfect for stuffing due to their sturdy skin and fluffy interior.
Olive Oil – Enhances roasting while adding a touch of flavor; a must for crispy skins.

For the Filling

Sour Cream – Provides creaminess and a tang that balances the richness of the dish.
Whole Milk – Adds moisture and creates a smooth, luscious texture in the filling.
Unsalted Butter – Essential for richness and a velvety consistency in the mashed mix.
Shredded Cheese – Use your favorite for melty goodness; reserve some for topping!
Salt – Essential for elevating all the flavors in your stuffed potato.
Black Pepper – A sprinkle adds a subtle warmth that complements the creamy filling.

For the Toppings

Bacon Bits – Crispy and savory, they add a wonderful crunch and flavor.
Green Onions – Fresh and vibrant, they’re perfect for garnishing and adding color.

These ingredients for the twice baked potato recipe will make each bite a blissful experience you won’t forget!

How to Make Twice Baked Potatoes

Bake Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F. Scrub the russet potatoes clean, pat them dry, then drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 50-55 minutes until they are fork-tender and the skins are crispy.
Prepare Filling: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl, leaving just a bit of potato on the skin to keep them sturdy. Mash the potato flesh with sour cream, whole milk, unsalted butter, shredded cheese, salt, and black pepper until smooth and creamy.
Stuff Potatoes: Return the empty potato skins to a baking sheet. Generously fill each skin with the creamy potato filling, then sprinkle the tops with the remaining shredded cheese and crispy bacon bits for that irresistible crunch.
Second Bake: Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the fillings are heated through.
Garnish: Serve your delightful twice baked potatoes garnished with freshly chopped green onions, extra bacon bits, and a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess.

Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving for an added touch of richness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Twice Baked Potatoes?

Twice baked potatoes are the perfect canvas for building a cozy meal, bringing delicious comfort to your table.

Grilled Steaks: The rich flavors and tender texture of grilled steaks complement the creamy potatoes perfectly, making for a satisfying dinner. Pair with a robust red wine for an elevated experience.
Roasted Veggies: Fresh seasonal vegetables add vibrancy and crunch to your plate, balancing the richness of the stuffed potatoes. The roasted flavors enhance the overall meal experience.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw introduces a refreshing crunch and brightness that cuts through the richness of the potatoes, creating a delightful contrast in textures.
BBQ Ribs: Savory and smoky, BBQ ribs pair exquisitely with the indulgent flavors of twice baked potatoes, creating a fun, hearty feast that everyone will love.
Caesar Salad: The crisp, tangy notes of a Caesar salad offer a wonderful balance to the creamy texture of the potatoes. It’s a light yet satisfying addition to your meal.
Garlic Bread: For a hearty Italian twist, serve alongside warm garlic bread. The buttery, garlicky flavors make every bite unforgettable, especially for those who love carbs!
Chili: A warm bowl of classic chili, with its hearty spices and comforting warmth, can be the perfect buddy for twice baked potatoes. This combo is surely a cold-weather delight.
Iced Tea: For beverages, sweetened iced tea or a refreshing lemonade pairs nicely, cutting through the richness and keeping your palate refreshed.
Chocolate Cake: As for dessert, a rich chocolate cake offers the perfect sweet ending after the savory indulgence of twice baked potatoes. It’s sure to bring smiles all around!

Twice Baked Potato Recipe Variations

There’s so much joy in making these hearty potatoes your own with delightful twists and thoughtful substitutions.

Bacon-Free: Substitute crispy tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based alternative that still provides a satisfying crunch.
Cheese Lover’s Delight: Mix in different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a flavor-packed twist.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling for a zesty heat that awakens the taste buds.
Veggie Boost: Toss in steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for added nutrition and a pop of color.
Herbs & Spices: Fresh herbs like chives or cilantro can elevate the flavor profile and bring a refreshing aspect to the filling.
Mediterranean Flair: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese into the mash for a savory, tangy surprise.
Sweet Potato Swap: Use sweet potatoes instead of russets for a slightly sweeter, nutrient-packed version that’s just as comforting.
Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, such as cheese and bacon bits, are gluten-free to make a deliciously safe option for those with dietary restrictions.

Experimenting with these variations will not only keep the recipe exciting but also cater to different tastes and preferences—your family and friends will always find something new to love!

How to Store and Freeze Twice Baked Potatoes

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps your twice baked potatoes fresh and ready for a quick reheat on busy days.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stuffed potatoes after they’ve cooled completely. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil; they can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat by baking at 350°F until heated through. Top with extra shredded cheese for that melty goodness!

Make-Ahead: Preparing twice baked potatoes ahead of time allows you to enjoy delicious comfort food without last-minute cooking hassle.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful twice baked potatoes are perfect for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy evenings or during entertaining. You can prepare the filling (sour cream, butter, cheese, and mashed potato) up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The potato skins can also be prepped and stuffed with the filling up to 24 hours ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly. This way, you’ll enjoy the same creamy and crispy goodness with minimal effort, letting you savor the moments with your loved ones!

Expert Tips for Twice Baked Potatoes

Choose Quality Potatoes: Select firm, blemish-free russet potatoes to ensure your twice baked potatoes hold together well and have a fluffy texture.
Perfectly Mash: Don’t over-mash the filling; use a fork or potato masher for a smooth yet slightly chunky texture that adds richness to your potatoes.
Season Generously: Taste as you mix the filling; salt and pepper are essential to bring out the flavors in your twice baked potato recipe.
Layer Your Toppings: Elevate flavor by adding cheese and bacon bits not just on top, but also throughout the filling for that delicious, gooey experience.
Store Smart: If making ahead, freeze the stuffed potatoes unbaked. Just thaw and bake directly to enjoy fresh twice baked potatoes on demand!

Twice Baked Potato Recipe FAQs

What kind of potatoes should I use for twice-baked potatoes?
Absolutely! I recommend using russet potatoes because they have a sturdy skin and fluffy interior, making them perfect for stuffing. Look for potatoes that are firm and free of blemishes to ensure the best results.

How should I store leftover twice-baked potatoes?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before storing to maintain their texture and flavor.

Can I freeze twice-baked potatoes?
Very! You can freeze the stuffed potatoes after they’ve cooled down completely. Wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and they can last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through.

What should I do if my potato filling is too dry?
If your filling turns out to be too dry, don’t worry! Simply mix in a little extra sour cream or whole milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve the desired creamy consistency. This will enhance the flavor and moisture in your filling.

Are these potatoes suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this twice baked potato recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check the labels on any toppings you choose (like bacon bits or cheese) to ensure they’re gluten-free, as sometimes processed products may contain gluten.

Can I make these twice-baked potatoes ahead of time?
Certainly! To make ahead, you can prepare the potatoes as instructed until they are stuffed. Then, refrigerate the unbaked potatoes for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, just pop them in the oven for the second bake, allowing a bit more time if they’re going straight from the fridge.