- **Cheese Stuffed Baked Potatoes** - Perfect for Family Gatherings or Quick Weeknight Dinners
- Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet, best for baking)
- Sour Cream
- Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Colby, Monterey Jack, or a mixture of your choice)
- Salt
- Black Pepper
- Butter (optional, for topping or mashing the potatoes)
- Olive Oil (for brushing on the outside of the baked potatoes before roasting)
- Optional Toppings: Green Onions, Chives, or Fresh Herbs
Remember to adjust the quantity based on your serving size and number of potatoes. This recipe combines classic comfort with a flavorful twist, making it a favorite for many!
Steps
## Delicious Cheese-Stuffed Baked Potatoes: A Recipe That Will Wow Your Guests
Cheese-stuffed baked potatoes are a hearty and delicious side dish that can be easily customized to fit any occasion—whether it's a casual family dinner or an elegant holiday feast. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to impress their guests with a simple yet impressive dish.
### Ingredients
- 4 large baking potatoes
- Salt, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred type)
- 1/4 cup diced green onions
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
### Equipment Needed
- Aluminum foil
- Baking sheet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife
### Step-by-Step Instructions
#### Preparing the Potatoes
1. **Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C).**
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated before placing the potatoes inside.
2. **Wash and pierce the potatoes.**
- Rinse each potato under cold water, then use a fork to make several punctures in the skin. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing them from exploding in the oven.
3. **Bake the potatoes.**
- Place the pierced potatoes directly on the middle rack of your preheated oven.
- Bake for about 45-60 minutes or until they are soft when pierced with a fork.
#### Making the Cheese Filling
1. **Prepare the cheese mixture.**
- In a small bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, diced green onions, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. **Set up your baking sheet.**
- Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
#### Assembling and Baking
1. **Remove potatoes from the oven.**
- Carefully take the baked potatoes out of the oven using oven mitts.
2. **Slice off the top third of each potato.**
- Use a sharp knife to carefully cut off the top third of each potato, creating a "lid" that you can later replace.
3. **Create a well in the middle.**
- Scoop out about 1/4 cup of the flesh from the center of each potato using a spoon or melon baller.
- Set this mashed potato aside for now; it will be used to top the stuffed potatoes later.
#### Filling and Baking Again
1. **Stuff the potatoes with cheese mixture.**
- Spoon your prepared cheese filling back into the hollowed-out section of each potato.
2. **Top with reserved potato flesh.**
- Fill the center of each potato with the mashed potato you set aside earlier.
- Replace the "lid" on top, pressing down gently to ensure it sticks and seals properly.
3. **Re-bake in the oven.**
- Place the stuffed potatoes back into the preheated oven.
- Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. **Serve hot.**
- Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chives if desired.
### Tips for Success
- **Use large, firm potatoes**: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best because they hold their shape well when baked.
- **Preheat your oven**: This ensures even cooking throughout the baking process.
- **Serving suggestions**: Serve immediately with sour cream and additional grated cheese on the side.
### Conclusion
Cheese-stuffed baked potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that’s both comforting and delicious. By following these steps, you can create this delightful dish to enjoy at your next gathering or meal. Enjoy your cooking!
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