How Long to Cook Twice Baked Potatoes at 350

How Long to Cook Twice Baked Potatoes at 350 is a question I often get asked. Twice baked potatoes are a fun and delicious side dish that are perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home. I love how you can stuff them with various toppings to suit any taste. The creamy filling and crispy exterior make the perfect balance, making them irresistible.

In this guide, I will share everything you need to know about making twice baked potatoes, including cooking times, preparation steps, and tasty filling ideas. So, if you’re wondering how long to cook them at 350 degrees, keep reading for all the details!

What are Twice Baked Potatoes?

Twice baked potatoes are regular baked potatoes that you scoop out, mix with delicious ingredients, and then bake them again. They are often stuffed with butter, cheese, sour cream, and green onions, which make them rich and flavorful. The second bake gives them a nice crispy top that everyone loves.

How Long to Cook Twice Baked Potatoes at 350

Before baking, you need to pick the right potatoes. I always recommend using Russet potatoes for twice baked potatoes. They are starchy and yield a fluffy texture inside.

Here’s how to prepare the potatoes:

  • Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt.
  • Prick each potato with a fork a few times. This helps steam escape during baking.
  • Coat them lightly with olive oil and salt for added flavor.

Baking the Potatoes the First Time

Once your potatoes are prepared, it’s time to bake them. To bake the potatoes, follow these steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
  3. Bake for about 1 hour. The time may vary depending on the size of your potatoes.
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Check for doneness by inserting a fork. If it goes in easily, they’re ready for the next step!

Scooping the Potato Filling

After the initial bake, let the potatoes cool for a few minutes. Then, carefully cut them in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the fluffy inside, leaving a bit around the edges to hold its shape.

Take care not to tear the potato skin. You can place the scooped-out potato in a mixing bowl. Set the skins aside to refill later.

Mixing the Filling

Now comes the fun part—mixing the filling! Combine the scooped potato with your favorite ingredients. Here’s a simple filling mixture to get you started:

  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar works great)
  • ¼ cup chives or green onions, chopped
  • ¼ cup butter, melted
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to get creative with the filling. You can add cooked bacon bits, garlic, or even broccoli!

Refilling the Potato Skins

Once the filling is mixed well, spoon it back into the potato skins. Make sure to mound the filling a bit to create a lovely, fluffy look.

At this point, you can sprinkle a little extra cheese on top if you really want to indulge.

Baking the Twice Baked Potatoes Again

Now we get to the essential question: How Long to Cook Twice Baked Potatoes at 350?

For the second bake, you should bake them for an additional 20 to 25 minutes. Here’s how:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit again if it cooled down.
  2. Place the stuffed potatoes back on a baking sheet.
  3. Bake until hot and bubbly and the tops are slightly golden.
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Checking for Doneness

To check if your twice baked potatoes are done, gently poke the filling with a fork or knife. If it feels hot and the cheese is melted, you’re good to go. If they need more time, let them bake for another 5 minutes and check again.

Serving the Twice Baked Potatoes

Serving these potatoes is almost as fun as making them! I love to garnish them with some chopped chives or parsley. Here are some serving ideas:

  • Serve them with a dollop of sour cream on top.
  • Pair them with grilled meats or a fresh salad.
  • They can also be a fantastic side dish for any holiday meal.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, don’t worry. Twice baked potatoes store well in the fridge. You can keep them in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

To reheat, simply place them back in a 350-degree oven for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. You can also pop them in the microwave for quicker reheating, but the oven will keep them crispy.

Enjoy Your Twice Baked Potatoes

How Long to Cook Twice Baked Potatoes at 350 is pretty straightforward. With the initial bake taking about 1 hour and the second bake around 20 to 25 minutes, you can easily plan your meal.

These potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. With endless topping and filling options, they can please any palate. Spend a little time making these, and I assure you, your family and friends will rave about your twice baked potatoes.