Ultimate Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe

Looking for the ultimate comfort food that’s indulgent, savory, and easy to make? Twice-baked potatoes are the answer. These creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned spuds aren’t just a side dish—they’re the star of the table! Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or entertaining guests, this recipe will take your potato game to the next level.

Follow along as we break down how to make the ultimate twice-baked potatoes, with tips for achieving perfectly fluffy, flavorful results every single time.

Why You’ll Love Twice-Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes take everything you love about a classic baked potato and elevate it. By scooping out the insides, mixing them with delicious add-ins, and baking them again, you create a combination of crispy potato skins and creamy, flavorful filling. Here’s why they’re a must-try:

Customizable: Tailor the recipe to suit your tastes—cheddar, bacon, chives, or even sour cream? You decide!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for prepping ahead and reheating for gatherings or quick meals.
A Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or casual dinner, everyone loves a piping-hot, cheesy potato.

Now, let's get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you need to make the ultimate twice-baked potatoes. Feel free to mix and match the extras to suit your preferences.

Basic Ingredients:

4 large Russet potatoes (perfect for their fluffy texture)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/3 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk (adjust as needed for creaminess)
3 slices cooked, crumbled bacon (optional for topping)
3 tablespoons chives or green onions, finely chopped
1 teaspoon garlic powder or fresh minced garlic
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

Cooked, crumbled sausage or ground beef
Steamed broccoli, chopped small
Grated Parmesan or Gouda for a cheesy twist
Red pepper flakes for a slight kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Scrub the potatoes clean under running water, then pat them dry with a paper towel.
Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt. This ensures crispy, flavorful skins.
Arrange the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

2. Scoop Out the Insides

Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, carefully slice each one lengthwise.
Using a spoon, gently scoop out the insides into a large mixing bowl, leaving about 1/4 inch of the potato flesh attached to the skins. Be careful not to tear the skins—they’ll serve as your base!

3. Make the Filling

To the bowl of potato insides, add the butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, half the cheese, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Use a fork or potato masher to mix everything until smooth and creamy. If the mixture feels too dry, add more milk a tablespoon at a time.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

4. Stuff and Assemble

Place the potato skins on a lined baking sheet.
Spoon the filling back into each potato skin, mounding it slightly for that indulgent twice-baked look.
Sprinkle the tops with the remaining cheese and crumbled bacon.

5. Bake Again

Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Place the assembled potatoes in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove the baked potatoes from the oven and sprinkle them with chopped chives or green onions for a burst of freshness.
Serve hot and enjoy the perfect balance of textures and flavors!

Pro Tips for Perfect Twice-Baked Potatoes

Choose the Right Potatoes

Russet potatoes are ideal because of their size and high starch content, which creates a fluffy interior. Avoid waxy varieties like red or Yukon golds for this recipe.

Don’t Overmix the Filling

Overmixing can make the filling gummy. Mash just until smooth for the best texture.

Make Them Ahead

Prep the potatoes up to the stuffing step and refrigerate them for up to two days. When you’re ready to serve, simply add the cheese and bacon on top and bake.

Freeze for Quick Dinners

Twice-baked potatoes also freeze beautifully. Wrap them tightly in foil and store for up to two months. Bake straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes.

Experiment with Toppings

Swap bacon for sautéed mushrooms, chorizo, or even roasted veggies for a unique twist.

Pairing Ideas

Twice-baked potatoes are incredibly versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. Pair them with:

Grilled steak or chicken for a classic combo.
A crisp green salad for a lighter meal.
A hearty bowl of soup or chili for extra coziness.

Why You’ll Come Back to This Recipe

There’s a magical combination of simplicity and indulgence with this dish. You can whip it up with ease and still impress everyone at the table. Plus, the customizability means you’ll never get bored. One batch, endless possibilities!

Take Your Potato Game to the Next Level

Twice-baked potatoes aren’t just a dish—they’re an experience. Creamy, crispy, and totally crave-worthy, they deserve a spot in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this recipe is guaranteed to wow.

If you try this recipe, we’d love to hear from you! Tag us on social media with a picture of your twice-baked creations and share your favorite toppings. ❤️

Happy cooking and happy eating!