Baked Potatoes
Baked potatoes topped with a flavorful cheesy mixture make for a comforting and versatile dish. The creamy filling combined with shredded Cheddar offers a rich taste, perfect for casual family dinners or gatherings. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite toppings, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and bake the potatoes until done.
- Cut open the baked potatoes and spoon out the insides into a bowl.
- Mix the potato insides with salt, pepper, Parmesan cheese, and margarine.
- Pack the mixture back into the potato hulls.
- Sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over all the potato halves.
- Place in a warm oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, try adding cooked bacon bits or chopped green onions to the potato mixture. You can substitute the Cheddar cheese with any other cheese you prefer, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda. If you're short on time, microwave the potatoes to speed up the cooking process before baking. This dish pairs beautifully with Sweet Potato Goodie for a delightful twist on classic flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked potatoes as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. They make a wonderful addition to a cozy family dinner and can be topped with sour cream, chives, or even chili for added flavor. For a complete meal, pair them with a light soup, like a vegetable or tomato bisque, to complement the richness of the cheese.
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 the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave them on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Potatoes contains roughly 674 calories, with 12g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (38% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1990mg per serving (87% 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 prepare these baked potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes in advance by baking them and then storing the scooped-out insides mixed with the other ingredients in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply pack them back into the skins and heat them in the oven until the cheese is melted.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content, which yields a fluffy interior. However, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes as they don't hold up well for this dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! To keep it vegetarian, simply omit any meat toppings and stick to the cheese and vegetable mix. You can also add spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor, making it a delightful option for those following vegetarian recipes.
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).