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## Step-by-Step Instructions for Ultimate Stuffed Oven-Fried Potatoes
Now that you’re familiar with the key ingredients, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making **Ultimate Stuffed Oven-Fried Potatoes**. This recipe is easy to follow, and the result is a show-stopping dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
### Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. While the oven is heating, scrub the **potatoes** clean under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat them dry with a towel.
Next, use a fork to poke several holes in each potato. This will allow the steam to escape during baking, preventing the potatoes from bursting in the oven.
Rub the potatoes with a generous amount of **olive oil** or **vegetable oil**, making sure they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the potatoes with **salt** and **pepper** to season them. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet, and bake for **40-50 minutes**, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
### Step 2: Make the Filling
While the potatoes are baking, prepare the filling. In a medium-sized bowl, scoop out the flesh from the baked potatoes, leaving about ½ inch of potato on the skin. You can use a spoon or a melon baller to carefully remove the flesh.
Place the scooped-out potato flesh in a separate mixing bowl and mash it with a fork or potato masher. Add the **melted butter**, **sour cream**, and a portion of the **cheese** (reserve some for topping). Mix until the filling is smooth and creamy.
Next, fold in the **cooked bacon**, **green onions**, and any other seasonings you like (such as garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper). Taste the filling and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary.
### Step 3: Stuff the Potatoes
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, carefully scoop out the center of each potato, leaving the skin intact. Be sure to leave enough potato around the edges to create a sturdy shell.
Spoon the mashed potato filling back into each potato skin, packing it in tightly. Once the potatoes are stuffed, top them with the remaining cheese and bacon.
### Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Potatoes
After the potatoes are stuffed, place them back on the baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake the stuffed potatoes for an additional **15-20 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tops are golden and slightly crispy.
If you want extra crispy skins, you can broil the potatoes for an additional **2-3 minutes** at the end of the baking time. Just be sure to keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
### Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional **green onions**, **chives**, or a dollop of **sour cream** if desired.
Serve the Ultimate Stuffed Oven-Fried Potatoes with your favorite main dish, such as grilled chicken, steak, or a fresh salad. They also make a great standalone meal for a cozy dinner.
## Variations and Customizations
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile, and you can tailor it to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas for customizing your Ultimate Stuffed Oven-Fried Potatoes:
### 1. **Vegetarian Stuffed Potatoes**
To make the dish vegetarian, simply skip the bacon and use a **vegetarian protein** like **black beans**, **chickpeas**, or **tofu** in the filling. You can also add extra vegetables such as **spinach**, **bell peppers**, or **mushrooms** to create a hearty, veggie-packed version.
### 2. **Mexican-Inspired Stuffed Potatoes**
For a Mexican twist, add **taco seasoning** to the mashed potato filling and top the stuffed potatoes with **salsa**, **guacamole**, and **cilantro**. You can also swap the cheese for **Monterey Jack** or **pepper jack** for extra flavor.
### 3. **BBQ Stuffed Potatoes**
For a smoky, tangy variation, add **shredded rotisserie chicken** or **pulled pork** to the filling along with **BBQ sauce**. Top the potatoes with **extra BBQ sauce** and a sprinkle of **cheddar cheese** for an irresistible flavor combination.
### 4. **Loaded Stuffed Potatoes**
Go all out by loading your stuffed potatoes with **cheese**, **bacon**, **sour cream**, and even **chives** or **sautéed onions**. This version is perfect for anyone who loves the classic **loaded baked potato**.
### 5. **Low-Carb Version**
For a low-carb version, swap the potatoes for **cauliflower** and prepare a **cauliflower mash** instead of traditional mashed potatoes. The result will be a lighter version that still satisfies your craving for creamy, cheesy comfort food.
## Conclusion
**Ultimate Stuffed Oven-Fried Potatoes** are a delicious, satisfying, and versatile dish that elevates the humble baked potato to new heights. Whether you prefer the classic cheesy-bacon filling or enjoy experimenting with different toppings and flavor combinations, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
With its crispy exterior, creamy filling, and endless possibilities for customization, stuffed oven-fried potatoes are perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings with friends and family. So, grab your potatoes and start stuffing them with all your favorite ingredients – your taste buds will thank you!
