Just like with my homemade mashed potatoes recipe, make sure to crush the scooped out flesh with butter before adding in the wet ingredients. Coating the potato starches with fat prevents it from interacting with the water molecules in the milk, which can make the consistency gluey instead of light and creamy.

The potato filling
Whole milk and sour cream make the filling smooth and light, creating a nice contrast in textures between the inside and outside. Bacon provides smokiness while the green onions give fresh herbaceous notes. The aged cheddar cheese binds the filling together when combined with the potato mixture.

Broil just before serving
To finish off the dish, one last sprinkle of cheddar cheese goes on top, followed by a 5-minute broil. The high heat blasts the potatoes one last time to melt the topping and give a final char to the skins. I like to save some chopped bacon and green onions to add on top for the final presentation.

Temporary storing and reheating
The potatoes can be covered with plastic wrap or foil and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat one at a time in the microwave on the “high” setting in 30-second intervals until warmed through, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Can you freeze twice-baked potatoes?