There's something magical about Twice Baked Potatoes – the crispy, golden shell paired with a creamy, cheesy filling that practically melts in your mouth. They're the ultimate comfort food and a surefire crowd-pleaser for any gathering.

I still remember the first time I made these for a family dinner. What started as a humble potato dish quickly became the star of the evening. Everyone went back for seconds (and thirds!), and now they're a staple in my kitchen for holidays and weeknight treats alike.

Let me show you why these potatoes deserve a spot on your table!

Why You'll Love These Twice Baked Potatoes

Get ready to embrace your new favorite side dish! These Twice Baked Potatoes are everything you didn’t know your dinner needed and more. Here's why:

First, they’re surprisingly easy to make. While the name might sound fancy, the process is straightforward, and you don’t need to be a kitchen pro to nail it. In fact, most of the work is hands-off while the potatoes bake.

They’re also endlessly customizable. Whether you’re a fan of crispy bacon, love gooey cheese, or want to sneak in some veggies, this recipe is like a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.

Perfect for parties or weeknight dinners, these potatoes can be prepped ahead of time and reheated just before serving. That means less stress and more time enjoying your meal.

Finally, the texture is unbeatable. The contrast between the fluffy, creamy filling and the crispy potato skin is pure magic. It’s a side dish that might just steal the spotlight from the main course!

Ingredients Notes

The secret to perfect Twice Baked Potatoes lies in simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one works together to create a side dish that’s bursting with flavor.

Russet Potatoes: These are the star of the show. Their starchy texture is ideal for creating a creamy filling, and their sturdy skin holds up well during baking. Choose medium to large potatoes for the perfect portion size.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create that creamy, luxurious filling. Unsalted is best so you can control the seasoning.
Sour Cream: The tangy flavor of sour cream balances out the richness and gives the filling its smooth consistency. Greek yogurt can be a good substitute if you want a lighter option.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar is a classic choice that melts beautifully and adds a punch of flavor. Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Monterey Jack.
Bacon: Crispy crumbled bacon takes these potatoes to the next level, adding a smoky, savory element.
Green Onions: For a pop of freshness and a mild oniony kick that complements the creamy filling.
Milk: Just a splash to loosen the filling if needed. Whole milk works best, but any variety will do.

For this recipe, you’ll also need a baking sheet, a sturdy mixing bowl, and a spoon or piping bag for filling the potatoes.

How To Make These Twice Baked Potatoes

Making Twice Baked Potatoes might sound fancy, but the process is as easy as pie. Follow these steps for the perfect dish every time:

Bake the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub your Russet Potatoes clean and pat them dry. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork, then place them directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender.
Scoop Out the Insides
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato inside to keep the skins sturdy. Place the scooped-out potato flesh in a mixing bowl.
Prepare the Filling
Mash the potato flesh with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Mix in the butter, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up. Fold in crumbled bacon and green onions for extra flavor.
Refill and Bake Again
Spoon the filling back into the potato skins, mounding it slightly. You can also use a piping bag for a fancier presentation. Sprinkle more cheddar cheese on top, then return the potatoes to the oven. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional green onions or bacon crumbles if desired.

These potatoes are best served fresh but can also be reheated for leftovers.

Storage Options

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (good luck with that!), these Twice Baked Potatoes store beautifully.

Refrigerator: Place the cooled potatoes in an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes for the best texture.
Freezer: Wrap each potato individually in aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 30-40 minutes.
Microwave Option: For a quick reheat, use the microwave, though the skins may not stay as crispy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun twists to try:

Veggie Boost: Add finely chopped broccoli or sautéed spinach to the filling for a healthier spin.
Loaded Potato: Swap cheddar for pepper jack cheese and add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Herb Lover's Dream: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill for an herby twist.
Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduce the cheese for a lighter take.
Vegan-Friendly: Replace dairy ingredients with vegan butter, plant-based sour cream, and shredded vegan cheese.

Don’t be afraid to experiment – this recipe is forgiving and delicious no matter how you customize it.

Twice Baked Potatoes are more than just a side dish – they’re an experience. With their crispy skin, creamy filling, and endless customization options, they’re guaranteed to impress your family and guests alike. Whether you're making them for a holiday feast or a casual dinner, these potatoes are sure to be a hit!