Cheez Whiz Spuds
Creamy and cheesy baked potatoes topped with colorful peppers and pimentos, perfect for comfort food lovers and versatile enough for casual gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the potatoes by washing and piercing them with a fork.
- Bake the potatoes until tender, about 60 minutes.
- While the potatoes are baking, dice the onion and bell pepper.
- In a bowl, combine the diced onion, bell pepper, diced pimentos, and the cream of your choice soup.
- Once the potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly and then cut a slit in the top of each.
- Scoop out some of the potato flesh into a mixing bowl and mash it.
- Mix the mashed potato with the Cheez Whiz and the vegetable mixture.
- Spoon the mixture back into the potato shells.
- Top with extra Cheez Whiz if desired and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, try using a combination of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup. You can substitute the Cheez Whiz with a homemade cheese sauce or a sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor. If you want to add some heat, consider mixing in jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling. Make sure to pierce the potatoes well before baking to prevent them from bursting.
Serving Suggestions
These Cheez Whiz Spuds make a hearty main dish, perfect for a cozy dinner. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. They also pair beautifully with Fried Squash Balls for a delightful side dish experience. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives on top for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed potatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method will help maintain the texture of the potato skins.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheez Whiz Spuds contains roughly 451 calories, with 7g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (37% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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 the stuffed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potatoes a day in advance. After filling the potato shells, cover them tightly and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just adjust the cooking time as they may need a little longer to heat through.
What can I use instead of Cheez Whiz?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can make a simple cheese sauce using shredded cheese and milk, or use a creamy queso dip. Both options will provide a delicious cheesy flavor similar to Cheez Whiz.
How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?
The potatoes are done when they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork. This usually takes about 60 minutes at 400°F. If you're unsure, you can test one by inserting a knife into the center; it should slide in smoothly without resistance.
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).