Drive 'Em Wild Potatoes
Drive 'Em Wild Potatoes are loaded baked potato halves filled with a cheesy, bacon-infused mixture, topped with Swiss cheese and chives—perfect for comfort food lovers and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut baked potatoes in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the potato flesh, leaving about 1/8-inch shell.
- Add sour cream and butter to the potato mixture and mash well.
- Stir in crumbled bacon and 2 tablespoons chopped chives.
- Add shredded Mozzarella cheese and mix well.
- Fill each potato shell with the mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese on top of each filled shell.
- Bake at 350°F for 25 minutes.
- Top with remaining chopped chives before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider using cream cheese instead of butter for a richer flavor. If you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be used for convenience. Fresh herbs like parsley can replace chives for a different taste. To add heat, mix in some diced jalapeños. Ensure the potatoes are fully baked before scooping for easier handling.
Serving Suggestions
These Drive 'Em Wild Potatoes make a hearty side dish or main course. Serve them alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Pork Chop Dinner In A Skillet for a comforting dinner. Consider adding a dollop of extra sour cream or a sprinkle of paprika for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover filled 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 for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. For quicker reheating, the microwave works, but the oven will keep the shells crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Drive 'Em Wild Potatoes contains roughly 625 calories, with 23g protein, 77g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (454% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (235% of the Daily Value), and iron (71% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 19g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?
The potatoes are done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops have a light golden color. You can also test the potato shells by inserting a fork; they should be tender enough to pierce easily. This usually takes about 25 minutes at 350°F.
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).