Ham And Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
Ham and cheese stuffed baked potatoes offer a hearty, cheesy filling with savory ham, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrub potatoes; pat dry.
- Rub each potato with shortening and prick several places with a fork.
- Bake for 1 hour or until done.
- Cut potatoes lengthwise; scoop out the inside, leaving a thin shell.
- Mix the scooped-out potato with butter, chopped onion, pepper, eggs, shredded Cheddar cheese, and diced ham.
- Stuff the mixture back into the potato shells.
- Sprinkle with paprika and bake until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider adding a splash of milk or sour cream to the potato mixture. If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or Swiss can be excellent substitutes for Cheddar. You can also enhance the flavor by using cooked bacon instead of ham or even adding sautéed mushrooms. Make sure not to overbake the potatoes initially to keep the insides fluffy, perfect for stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these ham and cheese stuffed potatoes with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They also pair well with a hearty soup like Double Corn Chowder for a comforting dinner. For a fun twist, top with additional cheese, sour cream, or chives before serving for extra flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover stuffed 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) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave them on medium power for 3-5 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Cheese Stuffed Potatoes contains roughly 378 calories, with 15g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (170% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value). At about 378 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 stuffed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potatoes a day in advance. Assemble them, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. When you're ready to serve, bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they're heated through.
What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Large baking potatoes, such as Russets, are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture and ability to hold their shape when baked. However, you could also use Yukon Golds for a creamier interior, though they may be more delicate when scooping out the insides.
Can I freeze the stuffed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed potatoes after baking. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes.
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).