Ingredients and Weight:
- 8 large potatoes (approximately 2 kg total)
- 8 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup of chopped bacon bits (optional)
- 2 tablespoons of salt, or as per taste preference
- 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
Preparation Time:
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 60-70 minutes (includes twice baking)
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty due to extended cooking time)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Thoroughly wash the potatoes and wrap them in a towel to remove excess moisture.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about an hour, or until they are cooked through and soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for about 10 minutes.
- Once cooled, slice each potato lengthwise and return them to the baking sheet, cut-side up.
- Drizzle each potato with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Return to the oven for a second bake for about 20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and top with shredded cheese and bacon bits (if using).
- Serve immediately.
Nutritional Information:
(Based on average values and may vary depending on specific ingredients used)
- Calories: Approx. 350 per serving (without cheese and bacon)
- Fat: Approx. 15g
- Carbohydrates: Approx. 55g
- Protein: Approx. 7g
Dish Characteristics:
- Twice-baked for a crispy exterior and creamy interior.
- Americanized flavor profile with the use of olive oil and optional bacon bits.
- Customizable with different toppings like cheese, bacon, or chives.
User Comments:
- "These potatoes were a hit at my dinner party! The second bake really gave them a nice crispy exterior." - John Doe, New York
- "I love how easy this recipe is to make, yet it tastes like a dish from a high-end restaurant." - Jane Smith, California
- "The optional bacon bits added a nice smoky flavor that paired well with the creamy potatoes." - Michael Johnson, Texas
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Choose potatoes that are large and uniform in size to ensure even baking.
- Let the potatoes cool slightly before slicing to prevent them from crumbling.
- Adjust seasoning according to personal taste preference.
- For an even more creamy filling, consider adding a scoop of sour cream or butter before the second bake.