Stuffed Potato Prep 101

Filled, baked potatoes are so delicious! They can be filled with just about anything, or simply mash the potato you scooped from the peel and put it back in the shell to be browned and served as a twice-baked potato.  Preparing potatoes to be filled is really easy.  Wash and poke large baking potatoes. You poke them to keep them from exploding and causing a huge mess. Bake at 350 – 375 for about 30 minutes, depending on the size, or microwave until soft. Again, your microwave and potato size will determine the time.  When soft, remove and wrap in thick kitchen towel and allow to rest a good 15 inutes.  This helps steam the inside of the potato, and I think it makes removal easier.  Now peel off a oval shape nearly as big as the potato. Set aside the potato skin.  From the edge of oval where you removed the potato skin, dig down close to sides and bottom of potato with a small spoon.

Scoop out potato.  Scrap with spoon to remove any excess  potato. Place potato shells on baking tray and bake 8 minutes on 350 to crisp and dry inside of potato skin.  Remove and fill with whatever you choose. Return to oven and broil about 3 – 5 minutes to brown tops, watch closely to prevent burning.  At this point I like to use my kitchen torch, or creme brule tool to quickly brown the tops.  Get ready for a delicious, and filling stuffed potato!  Check out my recipe section  for a stuffed potato recipe!