Cheesy Bacon Jalapeño Stuffed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes loaded with cheddar, cream cheese, crispy bacon, and spicy jalapeños—then baked into crispy potato skins—these stuffed potatoes are the ultimate comfort side. Think of them as a heartier, spicier twist on traditional potato skins, perfect alongside a steak or served solo as the star of the meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
These twice-baked potatoes are ultra-satisfying, easy to prep ahead, and endlessly customizable. Serve them with ribs, steak, or enjoy on their own. Want to skip the heat? Just leave out the jalapeños—they’re still loaded with flavor.

Ingredients Overview:

• Potatoes: Large russet potatoes hold up best for baking and stuffing.
• Oil: Olive oil helps crisp the skins—avocado or vegetable oil works too.
• Dairy: Butter, milk, cream cheese, sour cream, and two cheeses (cheddar and pepper jack) make for rich, creamy filling.
• Add-ins: Diced jalapeños (optional for heat), thick-cut bacon, green onions, salt, and pepper.

How to Make Them:

1. Bake the Potatoes: Scrub and pierce the potatoes with a fork. Rub with oil and salt. Place on a foil-lined sheet and bake until fork tender.
2. Prep the Filling: Once cool enough to handle, slice the potatoes lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a bowl—leaving a thin layer to support the shell.
3. Mix It All Together: Mash the potato flesh with butter, milk, cream cheese, jalapeños, bacon, and seasonings. Mix gently to keep it fluffy.
4. Stuff and Bake Again: Spoon the mixture back into the potato shells. Bake a second time until heated through and lightly golden on top.
5. Garnish and Serve: Top with chopped green onions, fresh herbs, or an extra sprinkle of cheese.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t scoop too aggressively—you want the skins to stay sturdy.
• Avoid overmixing to prevent gummy texture.
• Store in a single layer in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for best texture.
• Try other cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or Colby Jack for a fun twist.

These stuffed potatoes are the kind of dish that feels like comfort in every bite—easy to make, hard to resist.