ay choo Looking for a simple yet satisfying meal? A baked potato with shredded cheese is the perfect choice. This classic comfort food is not only easy to prepare but also customizable to suit everyone’s taste. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a hearty side, this recipe will guide you through making the perfect baked potato, topped with melty cheese and your favorite garnishes.
Baked potatoes are a timeless favorite, beloved for their crispy skin and fluffy interior. Adding shredded cheese elevates this humble dish to a new level of deliciousness, making it a hit at any table. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to add a variety of toppings such as sour cream, bacon bits, and green onions. Perfect for a cozy dinner at home or as a crowd-pleasing side dish, baked potatoes with shredded cheese are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
 Ingredients:
– 4 large russet potatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite blend)
– 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
– 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (optional)
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (optional)
– Butter (optional, for serving)
 Instructions:
1. **Preheat the Oven**:
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures the potatoes cook evenly, resulting in crispy skin and a soft interior.
2. **Prepare the Potatoes**:
– Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a kitchen towel.
– Using a fork, poke several holes in each potato. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the potatoes from bursting.
3. **Season the Potatoes**:
– Rub each potato with olive oil, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper, pressing lightly to adhere to the skin.
4. **Bake the Potatoes**:
– Place the seasoned potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easier cleanup.
– Bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on the size of the potatoes. They are done when a fork or knife easily pierces the center. The skin should be crispy, and the inside should be soft and fluffy.
5. **Add the Cheese**:
– Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
– Using a sharp knife, make a slit lengthwise down the center of each potato. Gently squeeze the ends to open up the potato.
– Fluff the inside with a fork and add a pat of butter if desired. Generously sprinkle shredded cheese over the fluffy potato. The heat from the potato will melt the cheese. For extra melty cheese, place the potatoes back in the oven for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and gooey.
6. **Optional Toppings**:
– Top the cheesy baked potatoes with a dollop of sour cream, bacon bits, green onions, and chives if you like. These toppings add extra flavor and texture to your dish.
7. **Serve**:
– Serve the baked potatoes hot, alongside your favorite main course or as a standalone meal. Enjoy the combination of crispy skin, fluffy interior, and melty cheese in every bite.
#### Tips for Perfect Baked Potatoes:
– **Potato Choice**: Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their high starch content, which results in a fluffy interior.
– **Even Cooking**: For even cooking, choose potatoes of similar size. This ensures they all finish baking at the same time.
– **Microwave Shortcut**: If you’re short on time, you can start cooking the potatoes in the microwave. Microwave on high for 5-6 minutes, then transfer to the oven to finish baking and achieve crispy skin.
– **Cheese Variety**: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and mozzarella all melt well and add great flavor.
Baked potatoes with shredded cheese are a simple yet delightful dish that offers a perfect balance of textures and flavors. With crispy skin, fluffy insides, and gooey melted cheese, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. It’s versatile, allowing you to customize with various toppings to suit your preferences. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a side, baked potatoes with shredded cheese are a comforting and satisfying choice. Try this recipe tonight and discover the joy of this classic comfort food. Enjoy!
