Twice Baked Potatoes are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness. The crispy bacon and cheddar cheese add a delightful crunch and rich flavor, making this dish a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
This recipe is versatile and easy to customize. You can add your favorite herbs and spices or substitute ingredients to suit your taste. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a snack, these Twice Baked Potatoes are sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. Enjoy them fresh out of the oven for the best experience.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons sea salt
- 6 large baking potatoes
- 3 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and diced
- 1/3 cup sliced chives or green onions
- 1/3 cup sour cream
- 1 ½ sticks (3/4 cup) unsalted butter, melted
- Additional sea salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the olive oil and 3 tablespoons of sea salt.
- Thoroughly coat each potato with the olive oil and salt mixture. Place the coated potatoes on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake the coated potatoes for 60 minutes in the preheated oven. They should be tender and fully cooked.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool enough to handle. Carefully slice each potato in half or make a ¾ lengthwise cut on the side.
- Scoop out the insides of each potato half, leaving a thin layer of potato inside the skin to maintain structure.
- Place the scooped potato into a mixing bowl. Add shredded cheddar cheese (reserve some for topping), diced bacon (reserve some for topping), sliced green onions, sour cream, one stick of melted butter, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Blend the mixture until well combined using a stand mixer with a paddle attachment on low speed.
- Evenly fill the hollowed-out potato skins with the potato mixture. You can use a spoon or a piping bag fitted with a large star tip for a more decorative appearance.
- Arrange the stuffed potatoes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops with the remaining half stick of melted butter and sprinkle with reserved cheese and bacon.
- Bake at 375°F for 15-20 minutes or until the tops are browned and the filling is heated through.
- Garnish the baked potatoes with additional green onions or chives if desired. Serve hot as a delicious accompaniment to any main dish or as a satisfying snack.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 75 minutes | Total Time: 85 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are a nutritional powerhouse, packed with essential vitamins and minerals. They are particularly high in vitamins A and C, which are crucial for maintaining good vision, boosting the immune system, and promoting healthy skin. Additionally, sweet potatoes are a great source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a feeling of fullness, making them an excellent choice for weight management. Their natural sweetness makes them a versatile ingredient that pairs well with both savory and spicy elements in recipes.
Avocados
Avocados are well-known for their creamy texture and rich flavor. They are a fantastic source of healthy monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health. Avocados also contain a significant amount of fiber, contributing to better digestive health. They are loaded with essential vitamins such as vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant, and vitamin K, which is important for bone health. Adding avocados to the dish not only boosts its nutritional profile but also enhances its creaminess and flavor.
Kidney Beans
Kidney beans are a valuable addition to this recipe due to their high protein and fiber content. They are an excellent plant-based protein source, making this dish hearty and satisfying. Kidney beans also provide essential minerals like iron, which is crucial for transporting oxygen in the blood, and magnesium, which is important for muscle and nerve function. Their inclusion in the recipe ensures a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
Tomatoes and Parsley
Fresh cherry tomatoes and parsley add a burst of freshness and color to the dish. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, which help protect the body against free radicals. Parsley, on the other hand, adds a touch of vitamin K and folate, both of which are essential for maintaining good health. Together, these ingredients enhance the flavor and visual appeal of the dish.
Cooking Tips
Roasting Sweet Potatoes
To ensure the sweet potatoes cook evenly and develop a delicious caramelized exterior, it’s important to prick them with a fork before roasting. This allows steam to escape during the cooking process.
Avocado Mixture
When mashing avocados, leave some chunks for added texture. This contrast between the creamy avocado and the firm kidney beans creates a delightful mouthfeel and enhances the overall eating experience.
Seasoning
Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. Adding a bit more lime juice can enhance the tanginess, while extra chili flakes can increase the heat for those who prefer a spicier dish.
Serving Suggestions
Main Course
Serve the stuffed sweet potatoes as a main course for a light and nutritious meal. Pair them with a simple side salad for a well-rounded dish that is both satisfying and healthy.
Side Dish
This recipe can also be a hearty side dish, complementing grilled proteins like tofu or tempeh for a complete vegetarian meal. The flavors and textures balance well with various main courses.
Toppings
For extra richness, add a dollop of dairy-free sour cream or a sprinkle of vegan cheese on top. A drizzle of hot sauce can also elevate the flavors, making the dish more exciting for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Variations
Herbs and Spices
Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint, and spices like smoked paprika or cumin, to customize the flavor profile to your liking. These variations can add new dimensions to the dish.
Proteins
Substitute kidney beans with black beans or chickpeas for a different texture and taste. Each type of bean brings its unique flavor and nutritional benefits.
Greens
Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale to the avocado mixture for an extra boost of greens. This not only enhances the nutritional content but also adds more color and texture to the dish.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of baked sweet potatoes and creamy avocado filling is not only visually appealing but also incredibly flavorful. The natural sweetness of the potatoes complements the savory and tangy avocado mixture, creating a balanced and satisfying dish. The addition of kidney beans provides substantial protein content, making this recipe a complete meal on its own. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is a must-try. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home, a potluck party, or any occasion where you want to impress with a healthy and tasty meal.
Conclusion
Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Creamy Avocado and Kidney Beans is a versatile, nutritious, and delicious dish that is sure to become a favorite in your household. Easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients, it’s an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy and satisfying meal. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, this recipe is guaranteed to impress and delight your family and friends.