Bacon-Topped Cheese Potatoes
Creamy cheese-filled baked potatoes topped with crispy bacon and seasoned with butter, sour cream, and cheddar, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash potatoes and rub skins with vegetable oil. Bake at 400° for 1 hour or until done. Allow potatoes to cool to touch.
- Cut a 1-inch lengthwise strip from the top of each potato; carefully scoop out the pulp, leaving shells intact.
- Combine potato pulp, sour cream, butter, shredded cheese, pepper, milk, and salt in a medium mixing bowl. Beat at medium speed of an electric mixer until light and fluffy.
- Stuff the potato shells with the mixture. Bake at 400° for 30 minutes.
- Top with crumbled bacon and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese. If you prefer a different flavor, try substituting the Cheddar cheese with crumbled Blue cheese for a bolder taste. Make sure to bake the potatoes until they are tender to ensure an easy-to-scoop filling. You can also add herbs like chives for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Bacon-Topped Cheese Potatoes as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. They pair beautifully with Pork Roast With Dressing for a comforting meal. For a more casual gathering, consider serving them with Chipped Ham Sandwiches as part of a potluck spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help maintain the texture of the potato skins.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon-Topped Cheese Potatoes contains roughly 363 calories, with 9g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is a good source of protein (18% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), and calcium (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2163mg per serving (94% 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 potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato filling and stuff the shells a day in advance. Just cover them tightly and store in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are cold.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, consider using sautéed mushrooms or crispy fried onions as a topping instead of bacon. For a healthier choice, turkey bacon or pancetta can also work well and add great flavor.
Can I freeze the stuffed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed potatoes before baking. Wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed, adding additional time if still cold.
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).