Ingredients and Weight:
- 8 medium-sized potatoes (about 2-3 pounds total)
- 1 cup low-fat milk or cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh bacon bits (or use pre-cooked bacon pieces)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives or green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Time:
- Preparation Time: 1 hour (including baking time)
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level:
Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Scrub the potatoes clean and wrap them in aluminum foil.
- Place the potatoes in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F.
- Once cooled, slice the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer of potato behind.
- In a bowl, combine the scooped-out potato flesh, low-fat milk or cream, bacon bits, chives or green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Spoon the mixture back into the potato shells and sprinkle with shredded cheese, if using.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes or until the tops are lightly browned and bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 servings total)
Calories: approximately 250 calories (depending on the amount of cheese used)
Fat: 6g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 6g
Fiber: 4g (approx.)
Dish Characteristics:
- Twice-baked for a creamy, rich texture.
- Uses healthy ingredients like low-fat milk and fresh vegetables.
- Great for those who enjoy hearty, comforting dishes with a side of vegetables or salad.
User Comments:
- "This dish was amazing! The potatoes were so creamy and flavorful."
- "I loved the combination of bacon and chives in this dish."
- "A great side dish for any meal. The low-fat ingredients made it a healthier option too."
- "I didn't expect these potatoes to be so good! The second baking really brought out the flavor."
- "A classic dish with a modern twist. The fresh ingredients made it stand out."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Make sure to bake the potatoes until they are tender to ensure a smooth and creamy texture when mixed with other ingredients.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste, depending on personal preference.
- If using cheese, opt for low-fat varieties to reduce calorie content.
