Million Dollar Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy baked potatoes with a crispy shell, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks, featuring rich flavors and a smooth, fluffy texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash potatoes and rub with oil.
- Bake at 400°F for 1 hour or until done.
- Cut potatoes in half lengthwise.
- Carefully scoop out pulp, leaving shells intact.
- Mash the pulp.
- Combine mashed pulp, 1 1/2 cups cheese, sour cream, milk, parsley, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff shells with potato mixture and sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using garlic-infused oil when rubbing the potatoes. If you're short on time, you can microwave the potatoes instead of baking them, but ensure they are fully cooked. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack for a twist. Fresh herbs can also be used instead of parsley for added freshness.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed potatoes make a great side dish for grilled meats or a hearty salad. Pair them with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. They also pair beautifully with American recipes like Texas Biscuits or Mom'S Peanut Butter Kiss Cookies for dessert, making it a great choice for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Million Dollar Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 350°F for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, though this may make the potatoes slightly less crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Million Dollar Potatoes contains roughly 308 calories, with 20g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (117% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and potassium (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 615mg per serving (27% 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 make Million Dollar Potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potato shells in advance and refrigerate them before the final bake. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to serve, bake them straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for Cheddar cheese?
If you're looking for a cheese substitute, you can use Gruyère or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a different flavor profile. Cream cheese also works well for a creamier texture. Just be sure the cheese you choose melts well to maintain the dish's creamy consistency.
Can I add vegetables to the potato filling?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers into the potato filling for added nutrition and flavor. This makes the dish more colorful and can enhance the taste while still keeping it deliciously creamy.
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).