Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Wash and dry 4 large potatoes. Poke a few holes in them with a fork.
Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 40–45 minutes until tender. Set aside to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Veggie and Bacon Mixture
In a frying pan, melt a small amount of butter and heat oil over medium heat.
Add 3 minced garlic cloves and 2 bay leaves to the pan, and fry for 2-3 minutes to infuse the oil with garlic flavor.
Add 1 grated carrot, 2 chopped tomatoes, and 5 strips of bacon (if using) to the pan. Fry until the vegetables are soft and the bacon is crispy.
Add the chopped leek, season with salt, black pepper, and your favorite dried herbs. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture is well combined.
Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Hollow and Stuff the Potatoes
Slice the top off each baked potato and scoop out the center, leaving a thin wall of potato to hold the stuffing.
In a bowl, mash the scooped-out potato with a bit of butter, then stir in the cooked veggie and bacon mixture.
Stuff the mashed mixture back into the hollowed potatoes. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese over the top.
Step 4: Bake the Stuffed Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet, sprinkle with the reserved cheese, and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 5: Make the Sour Cream Sauce
In a bowl, mix 200g sour cream, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and the juice of 1/4 lemon.
Add 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, dill, parsley, and 2 minced garlic cloves. Stir until combined.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once the potatoes are done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve with the sour cream sauce on the side.
Enjoy your delicious, cheesy, stuffed baked potatoes!
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Pair with garlic bread or a crusty baguette for extra heartiness.
Cooking Tips:
For extra crispiness, fry the bacon separately and sprinkle it on top before serving.
Adjust the herbs to your liking—try rosemary or thyme for added depth of flavor.
Use different cheeses like feta or blue cheese for a twist.
Nutritional Benefits:
Potatoes are rich in potassium and vitamin C.
Garlic and leek offer antioxidant properties, supporting immune health.
Sour cream provides calcium and a delicious creaminess.
Dietary Information:
Vegetarian option: Simply omit the bacon.
Gluten-free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approx.):
Calories: 400
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 14g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 5g
Sodium: 700mg
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezing: You can freeze the stuffed potatoes without the sauce for up to 1 month. Thaw and reheat in the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Comfort food at its finest: Gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and creamy potatoes.
Easy to prepare: Simple ingredients and steps make it accessible for any cook.
Customizable: Adjust the filling and herbs to suit your taste.
Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead and reheat as needed.
Conclusion:
These cheesy baked potatoes stuffed with a savory veggie and bacon mixture are the ultimate comfort food. Topped with melty cheese and served with a tangy sour cream sauce, they are both filling and delicious. Whether for a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use different vegetables?
Yes, you can substitute or add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
What type of cheese works best?
Any melting cheese like cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda works well.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes will add a nice sweetness and are equally delicious.
How do I keep the potatoes crispy?
Bake the potatoes on a wire rack to allow air to circulate and keep the skins crispy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potatoes ahead of time and bake them right before serving.
How do I make the sour cream sauce creamier?
Add a bit of cream or mayonnaise to the sauce for an extra creamy texture.
Can I add other spices?
Yes, paprika, cumin, or chili flakes can add more flavor to the dish.
How do I prevent the filling from becoming too watery?
Make sure to drain the tomatoes well before adding them to the mixture.
What’s the best way to reheat the potatoes?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Potatoes with onions are tastier than meat!
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