Bacon Cheddar Twice Baked Potatoes

One of the things I inherited when I got married was a mother in law who can cook delicious food. I have never met a woman who puts so much love into each thing she prepares. I can’t explain it. She takes her time and is flawless at the execution of her meals. Each and every meal that I have eaten from her has been spectacular.

One of the dishes I have enjoyed making over the years is her twice baked potatoes. This is one of those dishes that there really isn’t a recipe you just kinda add this and that stir taste and add more. I have tried to make a recipe for you to adapt as you wish. I have added cream cheese and horseradish on occasion and both have been proven to be delicious additions. Try if you like. The only thing to remember is that the more cheese and bacon you add, the better off you’ll be!

Bacon Cheddar Twice Baked Potatoes

~6 medium russet potatoes
~canola oil to coat potatoes
~kosher salt
~4 oz cream cheese, softened
~1/4 cup-1/2 cup half & half
~1-2 cups  shredded sharp cheddar cheese
~1/4 -1/2 cup crumbled cooked bacon

sliced green onions or fresh chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 13×9 baking dish and set aside.

Wash potatoes thoroughly with a stiff brush and cold running water. Dry, then using a standard fork poke 8 to 12 deep holes all over the tatoe so that moisture can escape during cooking or don’t and see what happens. Place in a bowl and coat lightly with oil. Sprinkle with kosher salt and place potato directly on rack in middle of oven. Bake 1 hour or until skin feels crisp but flesh beneath feels soft. Allow to cool slightly enough to handle and keep the oven on.

Once cooled enough to handle, cut the potato in large dice and place in a bowl. Add the cream cheese, half and half, half of the cheddar cheese, bacon and horseradish to the bowl. Using a potato masher, mash the ingredients together. Place in the prepared 13×9 baking dish, sprinkle the remaining half of cheddar cheese and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through and cheese is melted. Before serving, garnish with green onions or parsley if desired.

~ Have a happy mouth!