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Twice Baked Potatoes: A Comforting Classic

Twice baked potatoes are a delightful dish that combines the comforting heartiness of a baked potato with a creamy, flavourful filling. This recipe is perfect for a cosy dinner, a side dish at a gathering, or even a satisfying meal on a chilly evening. The beauty of twice baked potatoes lies in their versatility; you can easily customise the filling to suit your palate or use up leftover ingredients from your fridge.

Ingredients

To make around four servings of twice baked potatoes, you’ll need:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 150g cheddar cheese, grated (more for topping if desired)
• 100g cream cheese, softened
• 100ml sour cream or Greek yoghurt
• 50g unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2 spring onions, finely chopped
• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like chives or parsley) for garnish

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 100 minutes
• Total Time: 110 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C for fan ovens), or 400°F.
2. Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt, then dry them with a clean towel. Prick each potato several times with a fork; this allows steam to escape while they bake.
3. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking tray lined with foil. Bake for approximately 60 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 15 minutes until they are manageable to handle.
2. Slice each potato in half lengthwise and gently scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl, being careful to leave a small wall of potato along the skin to hold the filling.
3. To the bowl, add the softened cream cheese, butter, sour cream, half of the grated cheddar cheese, chopped spring onions, garlic powder (if using), and salt and pepper. Mash the mixture together until it is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.

Step 3: Refill and Bake Again

1. Spoon the potato filling back into the potato skins, heaping it generously. If desired, sprinkle the remaining grated cheddar cheese over the top.
2. Place the filled potatoes back on the baking tray and return them to the oven.
3. Bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and slightly crisp.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the twice baked potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Customisation Options

The beauty of twice baked potatoes is that they can be adapted to suit any taste. Here are a few suggestions for customising your filling:

• Vegetable Add-ins: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli can add colour and nutrients.
• Protein Boost: Incorporating bacon bits, shredded chicken, or even tuna can turn these potatoes into a complete meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add some chopped jalapeños, or a sprinkle of your favourite hot sauce for a bit of heat.

Conclusion

Twice baked potatoes are a nostalgic comfort food that brings warmth to any meal. Their creamy filling and crispy top create a delightful contrast, making them irresistible. Ideal as a side dish or a main course, they can be tailored to suit any occasion or palate. Whether you fill them with cheese and spring onions or add your own unique twist, twice baked potatoes are sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy the process, get creative, and relish every bite!