Cheese-Bacon Stuffed Potatoes
Cheese-Bacon Stuffed Potatoes are hearty, cheesy baked potatoes filled with savory bacon, mushrooms, and green onions, perfect for a comforting family meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Bake potatoes for 1 to 1 1/2 hours or until done.
- Leave the oven on.
- Saute chopped bacon in a skillet until crisp. Add chopped mushrooms and sliced green onions; cook for 4 to 5 minutes until mushrooms are lightly cooked.
- Transfer the mushroom mixture to a bowl.
- Cut the baked potatoes in half and scoop out the flesh, leaving 1/2 inch on the skin.
- Mash the potato flesh until smooth in a bowl.
- Stir in the mushroom mixture, shredded Cheddar cheese, black pepper, salt, and butter.
- Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated 375°F oven for 15 minutes or until piping hot.
- Top each potato with sour cream and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the mashed potato mixture. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked bacon or turkey bacon as a lighter substitute. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can enhance the flavor and add a pop of color to the dish. For a different twist, try adding some garlic or spices to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese-bacon stuffed potatoes make for a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course. Pair them with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. They also go well with barbecue dishes, such as Barbecued Pork Sandwiches(This Recipe Uses Less Sugar And Salt Than Other Recipes.), making them versatile for any occasion.
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 the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option, but the oven method will help retain the crispiness of the potato skins.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese-Bacon Stuffed Potatoes contains roughly 1202 calories, with 17g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 86g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (60% of the Daily Value), potassium (51% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2009mg 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 use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Cheddar cheese is traditional, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a spicy Pepper Jack for an extra kick. Just ensure that the cheese melts well for a creamy texture.
How can I make these potatoes vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach instead. You can also enhance the flavor with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the bacon's richness.
Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potatoes a day in advance. After filling the skins, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
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).