Introduction
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and cheesy stuffed baked potatoes recipe, perfect for any occasion. With a crispy skin and a rich filling, these potatoes take all the goodness of traditional baked potatoes and elevate them to a whole new level. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, they are sure to impress family and friends alike!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 4 medium russet potatoes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons half-and-half or whipping cream
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
– 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 2 green onions, chopped
Prep Time
Approximately 10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
Total Time: 50-55 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
With this recipe, you’ll be able to whip up a delicious indulgence that combines the heartiness of potatoes with savory toppings. Enjoy these cheesy and satisfying stuffed baked potatoes, and don’t forget to share with your loved ones!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry.
Step 2: Oil and Season
Rub each potato with vegetable oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt.
Step 3: Air Fry the Potatoes
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching.
Step 4: Cooking Time
Cook at 400°F for 35-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the skins are crispy.
Step 5: Cool the Potatoes
Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool slightly until safe to handle.
Step 6: Slice the Potatoes
Slice each potato in half lengthwise.
Step 7: Scoop the Flesh
Scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato attached to the skin to maintain structure.
Step 8: Prepare the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the scooped-out potato flesh, softened butter, sour cream, half-and-half, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
Step 9: Mash the Mixture
Mash the mixture until smooth and creamy.
Step 10: Stuff the Potatoes
Spoon the mashed potato mixture back into the potato skins, dividing it evenly among the halves.
Step 11: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the tops with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Step 12: Return to Air Fryer
Place the stuffed potatoes back into the air fryer basket.
Step 13: Melt the Cheese
Cook at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 14: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the air fryer and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
Storage Tips
Leftover stuffed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, place the stuffed potatoes in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warmed through.
Customization Options
Feel free to add additional toppings such as jalapeños, different types of cheese, or your favorite spices for extra flavor.
Cook techniques
Preparation of Potatoes
Scrubbing the potatoes removes any dirt or debris. Patting them dry ensures that the oil adheres well, which aids in crisping the skin during cooking.
Oiling and Seasoning
Rubbing the potatoes with vegetable oil and sprinkling with salt enhances flavor and helps achieve a crispy texture when cooked.
Air Fryer Cooking
Placing the potatoes in the air fryer basket without touching allows for even cooking and promotes a crispy skin. Cooking at 400°F for 35-40 minutes ensures they become tender inside.
Scooping the Potatoes
Slicing the potatoes in half and scooping out the flesh requires care to maintain the integrity of the skin, leaving about 1/4 inch to prevent collapse.
Mashing the Filling
Combining the scooped-out potato flesh with butter, sour cream, half-and-half, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper creates a creamy filling. Mashing until smooth ensures a delightful texture.
Stuffing the Potatoes
Spoon the mashed potato mixture back into the skin evenly to create a visually appealing presentation and ensure each bite has a balanced flavor.
Final Cooking for Cheese Melt
Returning the stuffed potatoes to the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes allows the cheese to melt and become bubbly, enhancing the overall taste and presentation.
FAQ
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes, you can use other potato varieties, but russet potatoes are recommended for their texture and ability to hold up as a skin.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can reduce the amount of cheese and bacon or choose lower-fat versions of sour cream and half-and-half.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potatoes in advance and reheat them in the air fryer before serving.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
Yogurt or cream cheese can be used as alternatives to sour cream in this recipe.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftover stuffed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for the best results.
Conclusion
The air-fried stuffed potatoes are a delightful and satisfying dish that combines the richness of creamy potato filling with the savory flavors of cheese and bacon. Each bite offers a perfect balance of textures, making it an ideal side or a main dish. This recipe embodies comfort food at its best, providing a delicious way to enjoy russet potatoes.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Loaded Taco Potatoes
Replace the cheese and bacon with seasoned ground beef, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a drizzle of taco sauce for a fiesta-inspired twist.
Buffalo Chicken Stuffed Potatoes
Mix shredded cooked chicken with buffalo sauce and cream cheese, and top with blue cheese crumbles for a spicy kick.
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Potatoes
Combine sautéed spinach, chopped artichokes, cream cheese, and mozzarella for a creamy, flavorful vegetarian option.
BBQ Pulled Pork Potatoes
Fill the potato skins with shredded BBQ pulled pork and top with coleslaw for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Garlic Herb Cheese Potatoes
Use a blend of cream cheese, garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant and savory version of stuffed potatoes.
