Aunt Helen'S Stuffed Baked Potatoes
A comforting baked potato dish featuring creamy mashed insides topped with buttery, seasoned filling, perfect for cozy family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place Idaho baking potatoes in a shallow pan and bake at 350°F for 1 hour and 10 minutes or until done.
- Cut off the top of each potato.
- Scoop out the potato insides and mash thoroughly.
- Add hot milk, 2 tablespoons butter, salt, and pepper to taste, then beat well.
- Refill the potato shells with the mashed mixture.
- Return the stuffed potatoes to the shallow pan.
- Shortly before serving, place in a 450°F oven to reheat for 8 to 10 minutes, or 5 minutes longer if potatoes are very cold.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding grated cheese or cooked bacon to the mashed potato mixture. If you don't have Idaho baking potatoes, any starchy potato like Russet will work. You can also use cream instead of hot milk for a richer taste. Adjust the butter and salt according to your preference, especially if serving alongside dishes like Spinach Artichoke Spread.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed baked potatoes make an excellent side dish for grilled meats or a hearty salad. They can be topped with sour cream, chives, or additional cheese for added flavor. For a complete meal, serve alongside a refreshing salad or pair with dishes like Kennedy Pound Cake for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the potatoes soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Helen'S Stuffed Baked Potatoes contains roughly 12 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1745mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these stuffed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed potatoes a day in advance. Just bake, scoop, and fill them, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven as directed.
What kind of potatoes should I use for stuffing?
Idaho baking potatoes are ideal due to their starchy texture, which mashes well. However, you can substitute with Russet potatoes if needed. Just ensure they are large enough to hold the filling.
Can I add other ingredients to the stuffing?
Yes! Feel free to customize the stuffing by adding ingredients like shredded cheese, herbs, or cooked vegetables. This versatility allows you to adapt the recipe to your taste preferences or to use up leftovers.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).