Loaded Baked Potatoes with Bacon and Cheeses
Loaded Baked Potatoes with Bacon and Cheeses
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes (approximately 1.5 kg / 3.3 lbs)
- 200g (1 cup) shredded cheddar cheese
- 100g (1/2 cup) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 150g (6 strips) bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 120g (1/2 cup) sour cream
- 50g (1/4 cup) unsalted butter
- 60ml (1/4 cup) whole milk
- 5g (1 tsp) garlic powder
- 5g (1 tsp) onion powder
- 5g (1 tsp) salt, plus extra to taste
- 2g (1/2 tsp) freshly cracked black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives, for garnish
Cooking Time:
Total estimated time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Instructions:
Step 1: Baking the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Prick each potato a few times with a fork to allow steam to escape. Place them directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for approximately 60 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Preparing the Bacon
While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a frying pan over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan, drain on paper towels, and crumble into pieces.
Step 3: Creating the Filling
Once the potatoes are done, let them cool slightly for about 10 minutes. Slice the top off each potato, scoop the insides into a large mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer to support the potato shell. Add butter, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the potato insides. Using a potato masher or fork, mash until smooth and creamy. Fold in sour cream, cheddar, mozzarella, and half of the crumbled bacon.
Step 4: Assembling and Baking the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spoon the potato mixture back into the potato skins, mounding it slightly. Arrange them on a baking sheet and sprinkle remaining bacon and extra cheese on top. Bake for an additional 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Garnishing
Remove from oven and garnish with freshly chopped chives. Serve immediately while hot. Offer additional sour cream and chives on the side if desired.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you now have a tray of luscious Loaded Baked Potatoes ready to serve! This recipe brings the perfect blend of simplicity and decadence, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re catering to a crowd at a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these loaded potatoes are a surefire way to win over any appetite. Try experimenting with additional toppings like green onions, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of paprika for an extra punch of flavor. Enjoy this dish as a versatile comfort food classic!
