There’s something truly special about gathering around a warm plate of Twice Baked Baby Potatoes. As the cheese bubbles and the aroma of crispy bacon fills the air, you can’t help but feel a sense of comfort and joy. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for cozy family dinners or laid-back gatherings with friends. Each bite is a delightful explosion of flavors—from the creamy filling laced with chives to the satisfying crunch of the golden skins.
I discovered this gem on a busy weeknight when I needed something delicious yet easy to put together. After a quick microwave to soften the baby potatoes, it all came together in less than 40 minutes! Whether served as a side dish or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these little potato delights are sure to impress anyone tired of the typical fast-food fare. Get ready to bring a burst of flavor to your table with this irresistible recipe that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Why Are Twice Baked Baby Potatoes So Appealing?
Delightfully Easy: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
Flavorful Experience: The winning combination of cheddar, bacon, and creamy goodness creates an explosion of taste in every bite.
Crispy Texture: Achieve a perfect crunch on the potato skins that contrasts beautifully with the smooth filling.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, these potatoes are a versatile dish that always impresses.
Quick Preparation: Ready in under 40 minutes, they fit seamlessly into busy lives without sacrificing flavor!
Crowd Favorite: Everyone loves a loaded potato—these bite-sized delights are sure to be a hit at your next gathering!
Twice Baked Baby Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
• 16 baby potatoes – Scrubbed clean to prepare them for a delicious stuffing.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your Twice Baked Baby Potatoes.
For the Filling
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Adds a melty, cheesy goodness that pulls everything together.
• ¼ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt – Provides a creamy texture; Greek yogurt can add a protein punch.
• 2 tablespoons chives or scallions – Offers a fresh, mild onion flavor that elevates the filling.
• 1 tablespoon butter – Melts into the filling for added richness.
• 2 strips bacon – Cooked and crumbled for that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor.
Bring these ingredients together to make magic in your kitchen! Your family and friends will love these twice baked treats, leaving fast food in the dust.
How to Make Twice Baked Baby Potatoes
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Preheat the oven to 450°F. Start by pricking each baby potato several times with a fork. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels.
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Microwave the potatoes on HIGH for 4 minutes. Flip them over, then microwave again for an additional 4 minutes until they’re tender.
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Halve each hot potato lengthwise with an oven mitt to protect your hands. Scoop out the insides into a medium bowl, leaving about 1/4-inch of potato on each skin for strength.
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Arrange the potato halves cut side down on a baking sheet. Brush each one with olive oil and generously sprinkle salt over the tops for flavor.
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Bake the potato skins for 10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden. After baking, switch your oven to broil.
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Mix the filling: In the bowl with the scooped potato, combine cheddar cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chives, melted butter, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Stir until creamy and well-blended.
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Fill each potato skin with the cheesy mixture. Return them to the oven and broil for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
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Top with crumbled bacon bits, and if desired, garnish with extra chives or scallions for a beautiful finish. Serve them warm and enjoy this delightful treat!
Optional: Add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Twice Baked Baby Potatoes
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Even Cooking: Make sure to prick the potatoes well before microwaving to allow steam to escape, ensuring they cook evenly and don’t burst.
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Crispy Skins: For the crispiest skins, be generous with olive oil and salt. This will help achieve that delightful crunch everyone loves!
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Filling Consistency: Mix the potato filling until creamy, but avoid over-mixing to keep a nice texture. The combination of cheesy goodness and smoothness in your Twice Baked Baby Potatoes is key!
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Flavor Boost: Experiment with different toppings like jalapeños, or switch up the cheese with a blend of your favorites. The sky’s the limit when it comes to flavor!
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Prep Ahead: You can prep the filling a few hours in advance. Just store it in the fridge and fill the potato skins just before baking for a quick turnaround.
How to Store and Freeze Twice Baked Baby Potatoes
Room Temperature: Enjoy your Twice Baked Baby Potatoes immediately for the best taste. If left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through for delicious results.
Freezer: These potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap individually in plastic wrap before sealing in a zip-top bag.
Reheating: Bake frozen Twice Baked Baby Potatoes at 375°F for 30-35 minutes or until heated through. This will help restore their crispy texture while keeping the filling creamy and delicious.
Make Ahead Options
These Twice Baked Baby Potatoes are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the potato filling up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can pre-bake the potato skins and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to store them in a single layer to maintain their crispiness. When you’re ready to serve, simply fill the prepped skins with the filling, pop them back in the oven to broil until the cheese is bubbly, and you’ll have a delectable dish waiting for you with minimal effort—perfect for busy weeknights!
Twice Baked Baby Potatoes Variations
Feel free to mix things up and give this delightful recipe your own spin!
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Vegan: Swap the cheese for dairy-free alternatives and use cashew cream instead of sour cream for a creamy bliss.
These tiny potatoes can still shine in a vegan light, ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy this crowd-pleaser. -
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the filling for those who crave a little heat.
Turning up the spice makes for an exciting twist that will tantalize your taste buds! -
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme into your filling for an aromatic twist.
The earthiness of herbs can elevate your dish, making it feel even more gourmet. -
Cheesy Variety: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella or blue cheese, to create unique flavor profiles.
This adds a new layer of deliciousness, enhancing the cheesy goodness to suit your palate. -
Vegetarian Delight: Fold in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach into the filling for an extra veggie punch.
These additions not only boost nutrition but also add depth and flavor that’s hard to resist. -
Bacon Lovers: Use pancetta or turkey bacon for a different savory flavor that still satisfies your bacon cravings.
This twist gives you that delectable crunch while exploring new savory dimensions. -
Loaded Style: Top with guacamole or additional toppings like diced tomatoes and olives for a loaded potato experience.
This makes life exciting at every bite, turning your potatoes into a mini fiesta on a plate! -
Smoky Flavor: A dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke can bring an irresistible aroma that captures attention.
This simple addition transforms your potatoes into a sophisticated and comforting dish perfect for any occasion!
What to Serve with Twice Baked Baby Potatoes?
Looking to elevate your meal? These delicious potato bites pair perfectly with a variety of comforting sides and flavors.
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Fresh Green Salad: Light and crisp, a vibrant salad adds a refreshing contrast to the cheesy richness of the potatoes. Toss in some citrus vinaigrette for a zesty kick!
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy and flavorful, grilled chicken complements the savory nature of the twice baked potatoes, creating a well-rounded plate. Plus, you can marinate the chicken with herbs for added depth.
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Honey Glazed Carrots: The natural sweetness of honey-glazed carrots balances the savory potatoes, providing a delightful flavor contrast. Their bright orange color also adds visual appeal to your table!
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Steamed Broccoli: A nutritious and vibrant side, steamed broccoli adds a lovely crunch and beautiful color. Its mild flavor pairs effortlessly, making sure the potatoes remain the star of the meal.
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Creamy Coleslaw: Cool, crunchy coleslaw brings a satisfying crispness that complements the warm potatoes beautifully. The creamy dressing enhances every bite while providing a delicious contrast.
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Crispy Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus: Add a touch of elegance with this dish. The savory bacon and tender asparagus create an enticing flavor profile that pairs beautifully with the twice baked baby potatoes.
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Red Wine or Sparkling Cider: For drinks, a smooth red wine enhances the flavors of the meal, while sparkling cider offers a festive, non-alcoholic twist, making the dining experience more enjoyable.
Mini Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best baby potatoes?
Absolutely! Look for firm baby potatoes with smooth skins—these indicate freshness. Avoid any that show signs of sprouts or dark spots. Smaller, consistent sizes will cook evenly, ensuring the best flavor and texture for your Twice Baked Baby Potatoes.
How should I store leftover Twice Baked Baby Potatoes?
Very simple! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing them up. When you’re ready to reheat, pop them in the oven or microwave and enjoy the deliciousness again!
Can I freeze Twice Baked Baby Potatoes, and if so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze, first, let your Twice Baked Baby Potatoes cool completely. Wrap each potato individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen at 375°F for 30-35 minutes for a crispy revamp!
What do I do if my filling is too runny?
If your filling is runny, no worries! You can add an extra tablespoon of shredded cheese or a small amount of mashed potato to thicken it up. Mix thoroughly to combine and refill your potato skins. This will enhance the flavor while ensuring it holds together nicely.
Are there any dietary considerations for Twice Baked Baby Potatoes?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for those with dietary restrictions, you can easily modify this recipe. To make it gluten-free, just ensure that your ingredients, like bacon and cheese, are certified gluten-free. Swap out the sour cream with lactose-free options or plain yogurt for a healthier twist. Always check for potential allergens if serving to a crowd!
Irresistible Twice Baked Baby Potatoes with Cheesy Goodness
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 450°F. Start by pricking each baby potato several times with a fork. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a microwave-safe plate lined with paper towels.
- Microwave the potatoes on HIGH for 4 minutes. Flip them over, then microwave again for an additional 4 minutes until they're tender.
- Halve each hot potato lengthwise with an oven mitt to protect your hands. Scoop out the insides into a medium bowl, leaving about 1/4-inch of potato on each skin for strength.
- Arrange the potato halves cut side down on a baking sheet. Brush each one with olive oil and generously sprinkle salt over the tops for flavor.
- Bake the potato skins for 10 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden. After baking, switch your oven to broil.
- In the bowl with the scooped potato, combine cheddar cheese, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chives, melted butter, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Stir until creamy and well-blended.
- Fill each potato skin with the cheesy mixture. Return them to the oven and broil for a few minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
- Top with crumbled bacon bits, and if desired, garnish with extra chives or scallions for a beautiful finish. Serve them warm and enjoy this delightful treat!