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The Ultimate Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe

Twice-baked potatoes are a comforting and indulgent dish that brings a touch of rustic charm to any dinner table. Perfect as a side dish or as a main event when stuffed with the right ingredients, these delightful spuds are an excellent way to elevate humble potatoes into something truly magnificent. In this article, we’ll guide you through the ultimate twice-baked potatoes recipe, ensuring your culinary creation is bursting with flavour and appeal.

Ingredients

To create the perfect twice-baked potatoes, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 large baking potatoes (like Maris Piper or King Edward)
• 50g unsalted butter, softened
• 150g soured cream
• 100g grated mature cheddar cheese
• 100g cooked bacon lardons or crispy pancetta (optional)
• 3 spring onions, finely sliced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) or 400°F.
2. Wash and Season: Give the potatoes a good scrub under running water and dry them thoroughly. Prick the skins with a fork multiple times to allow steam to escape during baking. Rub the skins with a little olive oil and season with salt.
3. Bake the Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking tray lined with foil. Bake for approximately 1 hour or until the skins are crispy and a fork easily pierces through the flesh.

Step 2: Scoop and Mix

1. Cool Slightly: Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes.
2. Cut and Scoop: Slice each potato in half lengthways. Carefully scoop out the soft potato flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer of potato on the skin to maintain its structure.
3. Mash the Potato: Add the softened butter and soured cream to the bowl. Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy. Add in half of the grated cheddar cheese, cooked bacon lardons (if using), and the sliced spring onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Refill and Bake Again

1. Stuff the Potatoes: Spoon the creamy potato mixture back into the potato skins, generously mounding the filling on top.
2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the filled potatoes.
3. Bake Again: Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove the twice-baked potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley for a pop of colour and flavour.
2. Enjoy: Serve hot and enjoy this delightful dish with your favourite main courses, or simply savour them on their own!

Tips for the Ultimate Twice-Baked Potatoes

• Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to get creative! You can add ingredients like cream cheese, garlic, different varieties of cheese, or even sautéed vegetables. The possibilities are endless.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the potato filling in advance and store it in the fridge. Simply refill the skins and bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Freeze for Later: Twice-baked potatoes can also be frozen after the second baking. Just ensure they are fully cooled and wrapped well. When ready to eat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 30-40 minutes.

Conclusion

Twice-baked potatoes are an incredibly versatile dish that can easily be tailored to suit your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a simple weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. With their creamy interior, crispy exterior, and delightful toppings, these ultimate twice-baked potatoes are destined to become a family favourite. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the satisfying experience of creating this delicious dish!