Marcia'S Twice Baked Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy twice-baked potatoes with bacon bits and chives, perfect comfort food for gatherings or family dinners, offering rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the instant potatoes according to the package instructions in a microwave-safe glass bowl.
- Mix in sour cream, butter, salt, and optional chopped chives to taste.
- Slice the cooked potatoes in half and scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl.
- Stir in bacon bits and shredded Cheddar cheese into the potato mixture.
- Refill the potato shells with the mixture and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or sprayed with Pam cooking spray.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional sour cream, bacon bits, or chives if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, add more sour cream or milk beyond the suggested amounts. If you prefer a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon bits or even diced ham as a substitute. You can also add in some sautéed onions or garlic for extra depth. If you have leftover filling, it can be served as a delicious side dish on its own.
Serving Suggestions
These twice-baked potatoes are perfect as a side dish to grilled meats or served alongside a hearty salad. They also pair beautifully with Rosie'S Spoon Bread Tamale Pie Bake for a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives or additional bacon bits on top.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover twice-baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option, but the oven will keep the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marcia'S Twice Baked Potatoes contains roughly 723 calories, with 11g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (54% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (51% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 533mg per serving (23% 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 fresh potatoes instead of instant potatoes?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes! Bake or boil them until tender, then scoop out the insides and follow the remaining steps of the recipe. This will give you a more authentic flavor and texture.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon bits and consider using a plant-based bacon alternative. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I freeze twice-baked potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze twice-baked potatoes. After baking, allow them to cool completely, then wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).