Indulgent Twice Baked Potatoes

Name: Indulgent Twice Baked Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled; 1/4 cup green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons butter

Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes

I love making Indulgent Twice Baked Potatoes when I crave comfort food that’s both simple and satisfying. The creamy filling mixed with tangy cheese and crispy bacon creates a flavor explosion that upgrades the humble potato into a gourmet dish. As I scoop out the fluffy insides, I can't resist tasting them before they even hit the oven! With a little creativity and some of my favorite ingredients, these potatoes become the centerpiece of any meal. The best part? They’re easy to customize, so I can experiment every time I make them.

Created by

Emma Johnson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T19:37:28.251Z

I found that the secret to making these potatoes indulgent lies in the balance of flavors and textures. By mixing the potato flesh with cream cheese and sour cream, I ensure a rich and fluffy filling. I also throw in crispy bacon and green onions to give each bite a delightful crunch and fresh flavor. Plus, a sprinkle of cheese on top brings it all together with that irresistible cheesy crust.

If you want to take the flavor over the top, consider using different cheese combinations or adding spices to the filling. Experimenting keeps the meal exciting and allows guests to discover unique flavors every time they dive into a potato!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent filling that’s creamy and comforting
Versatile recipe allowing for diverse mix-ins
Perfect as a side dish or a main course

The Art of Baking Potatoes

Achieving perfectly baked russet potatoes is crucial for this recipe. Start by choosing large, uniform potatoes to ensure even cooking. When preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C), the ideal baking time is around 45 minutes, but depending on your oven, this may vary. To test for doneness, insert a fork into the potato; it should slide in easily without resistance, indicating a fluffy interior. Avoid overbaking, which can result in a dry texture.

Piercing the potatoes with a fork before baking allows steam to escape, preventing them from bursting in the oven. As the skin crisps up, it creates a wonderful contrast to the creamy filling later. For an added layer of flavor, you can lightly coat the skins with olive oil and sprinkle some sea salt before baking. This step enhances the savoriness and crunch of the skins when you fill them later.

Creating the Perfect Filling

The filling for these twice-baked potatoes is where you can really shine. The combination of sour cream and cream cheese creates a rich, creamy texture that balances perfectly with shredded cheddar cheese. Make sure both cheeses are at room temperature for easier mixing and to achieve that silky consistency. Adding crumbled cooked bacon introduces a delightful smoky flavor that elevates the dish. If you're not a fan of bacon, consider using sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a vegetarian option that still packs in flavor.

As you mix the filling ingredients, aim for a smooth and creamy consistency. If you find the mixture too thick, a splash of milk or additional sour cream can help loosen it up. Keep tasting as you go; adjusting the seasonings, salt, and pepper to your liking makes all the difference. Remember, each ingredient contributes not only to flavor but also to the filling's texture, so be thoughtful about your mix-ins and proportions.

Ingredients

For the Twice Baked Potatoes

4 large russet potatoes
1 cup sour cream
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons butter

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and pierce the potatoes with a fork. Bake them directly on the oven rack for 45 minutes, or until they are tender.

Mix the Filling

Once the potatoes are done, let them cool for a few minutes. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl, leaving a small border. To the bowl, add sour cream, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and smooth.

Fill and Bake Again

Spoon the filling back into the potato skins and top with additional cheese if desired. Place them back in the oven for another 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and golden on top.

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, broil the filled potatoes for the last 2-3 minutes of baking. You can also experiment with different cheeses like gouda or feta for more flavor!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Indulgent Twice Baked Potatoes can be prepared ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for meal prep. Once filled and before the second bake, wrap the potatoes tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This method allows the flavors to meld together even more, resulting in a tastier dish when you finally bake them a second time.

To reheat, you can bake them from the fridge at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until heated through. If you're short on time, a microwave can also do the trick; just be careful to reheat them in short intervals to avoid overheating and making the filling gummy.

Serving Suggestions

These twice-baked potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served as either a side dish or a hearty main course. For a balanced meal, consider pairing them with a fresh garden salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette or serve alongside grilled meats or vegetables. Their creamy texture and rich flavor complement a variety of main dishes beautifully.

For added flair, consider garnishing the finished potatoes with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick. This final touch elevates the presentation while enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make these potatoes in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and keep it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before filling the potato skins and baking.

→ What other ingredients can I use in the filling?

Feel free to add ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or different meats like ham or sausage to customize your potatoes.

→ Can I freeze twice baked potatoes?

Absolutely! Just freeze the filled potatoes in an airtight container and reheat from frozen, adding extra time to ensure they heat through.

→ What can I serve with these potatoes?

These potatoes are great as a side dish to grilled meats, or you can serve them with a salad for a complete meal.