There’s something magical about the combination of creamy mashed potatoes and crispy baked skins in Twice Baked Potatoes. This comforting side dish is loaded with cheese, sour cream, and savory toppings, making it a showstopper for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts.

I still remember the first time I made these—what started as a way to jazz up plain baked potatoes turned into a recipe that everyone now requests again and again. Let’s dive into the details so you can make this decadent dish a hit at your table!

Why You’ll Love These Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice baked potatoes aren’t just delicious—they’re a perfect balance of comfort and indulgence. Here’s why you’ll love them:

Customizable and Crowd-Pleasing: You can tailor the filling to include your favorite cheeses, veggies, or proteins. Everyone will find something to love!
Perfect for Entertaining: These potatoes can be prepped ahead of time, making them ideal for stress-free hosting.
Crispy and Creamy: The contrast between the crispy skin and the creamy, cheesy filling is pure perfection.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable ingredients, this dish is a great way to stretch your grocery budget without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Twice Baked Potatoes lies in their simple ingredients, each bringing something special to the dish:

Russet Potatoes: These are the best choice because of their sturdy skins and fluffy interior, which are perfect for holding the creamy filling.
Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese adds a tangy, bold flavor. You can also mix in Parmesan or Monterey Jack for extra cheesiness.
Sour Cream: This gives the filling its creamy texture and tangy flavor.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky-smooth filling.
Milk: A splash of milk helps achieve the perfect consistency for the potato mixture.
Bacon (Optional): Crispy bacon crumbles add a smoky, savory note to the filling.
Green Onions: These bring a fresh, mild onion flavor and brighten the dish.

You’ll also need olive oil, salt, and pepper to season the potatoes.

How To Make Twice Baked Potatoes

Making Twice Baked Potatoes is easier than you think. Here’s how to do it step by step:

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub 4 large russet potatoes clean, then pat them dry. Pierce each potato several times with a fork and rub them with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and place them directly on the oven rack. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Let the baked potatoes cool slightly, then slice each one in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer of potato inside the skins. Place the scooped-out potato in a mixing bowl.

Mash the potato flesh with ¼ cup butter, ½ cup sour cream, and ¼ cup milk until smooth. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup crumbled bacon (if using), and 2 tablespoons chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Refill the Skins

Spoon the filling back into the potato skins, mounding it slightly. Place the filled potatoes on a baking sheet. Sprinkle with additional cheese and bacon for a golden, cheesy topping.

Step 4: Bake Again

Return the potatoes to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with extra green onions or a dollop of sour cream before serving. Enjoy them hot for the ultimate comforting side dish!

Storage Options

Twice baked potatoes store and reheat beautifully, making them great for meal prep or leftovers:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap each potato individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat refrigerated potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For frozen potatoes, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is versatile, so feel free to get creative with the filling:

Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a flavorful twist.
Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
Loaded Potatoes: Add sour cream, chives, and extra cheese as toppings for the ultimate indulgence.
Cheese Variety: Swap cheddar for Gouda, blue cheese, or Pepper Jack to change the flavor profile.
Mini Versions: Use smaller potatoes for a bite-sized appetizer that’s perfect for parties.

Twice Baked Potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of comfort food done right. Whether served alongside steak, chicken, or enjoyed as a meal on their own, these cheesy, creamy potatoes are guaranteed to be a hit. Try them once, and you’ll find yourself making them again and again!