Crispy Oven-Fried Stuffed Potatoes (Loaded & Cheesy!)
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 mins
Total Time: 1 hour 20 mins
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American
Course: Appetizer / Side Dish
These Oven-Fried Stuffed Potatoes are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with cheese, bacon, and green onions—a healthier twist on classic loaded potatoes! Perfect as a game-day snack, party appetizer, or hearty side dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Crispy & golden without deep frying
✔️ Packed with flavor—cheesy, smoky bacon, and creamy sour cream
✔️ Easy to customize (swap toppings or make it vegetarian)
✔️ Crowd-pleaser for parties and family dinners
Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes (washed and dried)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- ¼ tsp paprika (optional, for smokiness)
For the Filling
- ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Bake the Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pierce potatoes with a fork (to prevent bursting).
- Place directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-50 mins until tender.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Let potatoes cool slightly, then cut in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out flesh, leaving a ¼-inch border for structure.
- In a bowl, mash potato flesh with sour cream, cheese, bacon, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff & Crisp Up
- Fill potato skins with the mashed mixture.
- Place on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle paprika (if using).
- Bake for 15-20 mins until golden and crispy.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Garnish with extra cheese, green onions, and bacon bits.
- Serve hot with extra sour cream or ranch dressing!
Pro Tips for the Best Stuffed Potatoes
🔹 For extra crispiness, brush skins with oil before the first bake.
🔹 Shortcut: Microwave potatoes for 5-6 mins before oven-baking to save time.
🔹 Make it vegetarian? Skip bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or jalapeños.
🔹 Meal prep: Assemble ahead, refrigerate, and bake before serving.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers (covered) for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze before the second bake (thaw & reheat later).
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 mins to keep them crispy.
Serving Suggestions
✨ Pair with: Grilled steak, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad.
✨ Game-day idea: Serve with buffalo chicken dip or guacamole!
Final Thoughts
These Oven-Fried Stuffed Potatoes are irresistibly crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor—a healthier alternative to fried potatoes that everyone will love!
Tried this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your twist! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
