Microwave Stuffed Baked Potatoes
A quick and cheesy microwave-baked potato dish with creamy filling, perfect for a hearty snack or light meal, appealing to comfort food lovers and busy cooks alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake potatoes in the microwave as directed.
- Cut a thin slice from the top of each potato, then scoop out the inside, leaving a thin shell.
- Mix the scooped-out potato with half and half, shredded Cheddar cheese, margarine or butter, dried parsley flakes, salt, pepper, and dry mustard.
- Mash until no lumps remain.
- Spoon the mixture back into the potato shells, top with remaining cheese and paprika if desired.
- Microwave again until heated through and cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider substituting sour cream for half of the half and half. If you want to add more flavor, try incorporating cooked bacon bits or green onions into the filling. Ensure the potatoes are evenly cooked by selecting those of similar size. If you're short on time, you can also use pre-cooked frozen baked potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed baked potatoes make a hearty main dish and pair well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, serve them alongside a bowl of chili or as a side to grilled meats. They also complement well with dishes like Easy Cobbler - Peach, Cherry, Apple for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed baked potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. For a crispier top, you can also reheat them in a conventional oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Stuffed Baked Potatoes contains roughly 209 calories, with 9g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (92% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 4g 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
Can I make these stuffed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potatoes ahead of time. After filling the shells, cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply microwave until heated through and the cheese is melted.
What can I add to the filling for extra flavor?
You can enhance the filling by adding ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted garlic. For a vegetarian twist, consider adding spinach or broccoli. Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese as well, such as pepper jack or feta, to customize the flavor.
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
While baking potatoes are ideal for their texture, you can use other varieties such as russets or Yukon Golds. Just ensure they are of similar size for even cooking. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of potato used, so adjust accordingly.
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).