Very Tasty Baked Spuds
Flavorful baked potatoes topped with Parmesan cheese and Italian dressing mix, offering a savory, cheesy snack or side dish perfect for casual dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes and slice them in half lengthwise.
- Pat the surface of each potato half dry with paper towels and spread with soft butter.
- Sprinkle each potato half with Italian salad dressing mix and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place the potatoes cut-side down on a cookie sheet.
- Bake at 400°F for 35 minutes until tender.
- Dust with paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the butter before spreading it on the potatoes. You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste. If you prefer a crispier skin, bake the potatoes at a higher temperature for a shorter time or broil them for the last few minutes. This dish pairs beautifully with Alice's Deviled Eggs for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
These baked spuds are delicious as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Consider serving them alongside a fresh salad or with Easy Hors D' Oeuvres Sauce for dipping. They also make a great base for toppings like sour cream, chives, or bacon bits. Enjoy them as part of a hearty dinner or a casual barbecue.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover baked spuds 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 10-15 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but this may result in a softer texture. For best results, reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Very Tasty Baked Spuds contains roughly 855 calories, with 17g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (164% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), and iron (79% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 27g 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 use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different varieties of potatoes such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes, which will yield a slightly different flavor and texture. Starchy potatoes will become fluffy inside, while waxy types will hold their shape better. Choose based on your personal preference!
Is it possible to make these baked spuds ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potatoes and season them earlier in the day, then cover and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if they are coming straight from the fridge, as they may take a bit longer to cook through.
Can I freeze the baked spuds?
It's not recommended to freeze baked potatoes, as they can lose their texture and flavor upon thawing. However, you can freeze the uncooked, seasoned potato halves. When you're ready to bake them, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time while baking from frozen.
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).