Are you searching for a crowd-pleasing potato side dish that’s both comforting and spectacular? Look no further than twice baked potatoes! These baked potato shells are loaded with creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes for a side dish that’s always the star of the table. Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a weeknight treat, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy every potato lover.
Why You’ll Love These Twice Baked Potatoes
Twice baked potatoes bring together everything we adore about comfort food: soft, fluffy insides, crisped skins, and the perfect blend of tangy, creamy, and savory flavors. This dish isn’t just a holiday staple—it works for family dinners, potlucks, and festive occasions year-round.
What sets this recipe apart?
- Double baking ensures the skin crisps up beautifully, while the filling stays creamy.
- Flexible fillings! Add your favorite cheese, beff bits, veggies, or heat for a custom touch.
- Prep ahead for zero stress at mealtime.
Best Twice Baked Potatoes
The star ingredient is the potato itself. Russet potatoes are my top choice: their sturdy skins are easy to fill and crisp up wonderfully, while their starchy insides create that dreamy, fluffy filling.
Ingredient List & Smart Alternatives
Potatoes: Russets work best
Olive oil: For crispy exteriors
Butter: Adds creaminess
Half-and-half: Mix of cream and milk; substitute with just cream, just milk, or plain Greek yogurt for extra protein
Sour cream: Tang and richness
Sharp cheddar cheese: For bold flavor, but try gouda, gruyere, or mozzarella for variety
Beef bits: Smoky goodness—swap for turkey Beef or veggie Beef if you prefer
Green onions: Optional fresh flavor
Kosher salt & black pepper: The essentials
Filling and Topping Suggestions
- Broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, or spinach for extra veggie power
- Swap Beef for caramelized onions or sun-dried tomatoes
- Use dairy-free alternatives for butter, cheese, and sour cream
- Try seasoning blends like smoked paprika, garlic powder, or herbs
Step-By-Step: The Ultimate Twice Baked Potatoes
1. Prep and First Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Scrub your russet potatoes under cold water. Pierce each potato several times with a fork, then brush lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt. Line your baking sheet with foil and arrange the potatoes evenly.
Bake for one hour, or until fork-tender. Allow potatoes to cool slightly.
2. Scoop & Mash
Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the inside, leaving a thin wall so the skins stay intact. Transfer the hot potato flesh to a large bowl.
Combine with butter, half-and-half, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash gently—too much mixing, and your filling may get gummy.
3. Stuff, Top, & Second Bake
Scoop the creamy filling back into each potato shell, mounding it for extra appeal. Top generously with shredded cheddar cheese and Beef bits (or your favorite alternative).
Lower oven temperature to 375°F, then return potatoes to the oven for 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and the tops are lightly browned.
Sprinkle with sliced green onions and more seasonings if you like.
Make Ahead, Storing & Freezing
Make-Ahead: Assemble up to step 3. Cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day for 15–20 minutes.
Storing: Keep leftovers airtight in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.
Reheating: Oven method keeps them crispy—15–20 minutes at 375°F. Microwave works in a pinch, but the skin won’t be as crisp.
Freezing: Cool fully, wrap in foil, and freeze. Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake as usual.
Tips for Perfect Potatoes
- Avoid over-mashing to keep the filling light and fluffy.
- Broken skins? Discard a few and fill your remaining shells higher!
- Test doneness with a fork—not just your timer.
- Add all mix-ins at once and blend quickly.
Twice Baked Potatoes Variations and Ideas
- Vegetarian: Ditch the Beef , amp up veggies and cheese
- Loaded: Add ranch dressing or serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt
- Spicy: Mix in jalapenos, pepper jack cheese, or sriracha
- Breakfast: Add a cooked egg on top before the second bake for a hearty morning treat
Explore more creative potato sides like Easy Potato Skins and Loaded Baked Potato Casserole—guaranteed hits for any occasion!
FAQs
Q: What makes twice baked potatoes different from baked potatoes?
A: The filling is scooped out, mashed with flavor-packed ingredients, then baked again for a crispy, cheesy finish.
Q: Can I swap ingredients?
A: Absolutely. Use what you have—variety is key!
Q: How do I avoid a gummy filling?
A: Mash gently and avoid overcooking.
Q: Can these be made dairy-free or vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use plant-based butter, sour cream, cheese, and veggie Beef .
Twice baked potatoes are more than a holiday tradition—they’re a versatile, delicious, and endlessly customizable dish. With these tips, you’ll enjoy perfect potatoes with creamy insides and crispy skins every single time.
Ready for potato perfection? Try the Twice Baked Potatoes today and pair it with other fan favorites