Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes are a comforting and delicious side dish that can be easily prepared in an air fryer. This recipe transforms regular baked potatoes into creamy, cheesy delights filled with flavorful ingredients. Perfect for a family dinner or as a side for your favorite protein, these potatoes are sure to impress!

Ingredients List

• 4 medium russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk (or cream)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cooked bacon bits for added flavor

Timing

Preparing Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes in an air fryer takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 40 minutes of cooking time. In just 50 minutes, you can enjoy this delicious dish!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.
3. Air Fry the Potatoes: Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 30-35 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Flip the potatoes halfway through cooking for even results.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Let Potatoes Cool: Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for about 5 minutes until they are safe to handle.
2. Scoop Out the Flesh: Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl, leaving a small border of potato in the skin to keep them sturdy.
3. Mix the Filling: To the scooped potato flesh, add shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, butter, chopped green onions, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined. If using, fold in cooked bacon bits.

Step 3: Refill the Potatoes

1. Stuff the Potato Skins: Spoon the cheesy filling back into the potato skins, mounding it slightly on top. Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top of each filled potato.

Step 4: Air Fry the Twice-Baked Potatoes

1. Air Fry Again: Return the stuffed potatoes to the air fryer basket. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is bubbly.

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with extra green onions if desired, and serve warm.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes (per potato half):

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 10g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this dish lighter, consider these modifications:

• Use low-fat cheese and sour cream to reduce calories.
• Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for added protein and tanginess.
• Add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli to the filling for extra nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes pair well with:

• Grilled meats or fish for a complete meal.
• A fresh side salad for added crunch and nutrition.
• Steamed vegetables for a balanced plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Cooking Potatoes Thoroughly: Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked before scooping to achieve a creamy filling.
• Overfilling the Potatoes: Be careful not to overfill the skins, as they may overflow during cooking.
• Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season the filling well; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftover Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

Conclusion

In just under an hour, you can create delicious Cheesy Twice-Baked Potatoes in your air fryer that are creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, so give it a try and enjoy the delightful taste of twice-baked potatoes!

FAQs

• Can I use other types of cheese?
  Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a unique flavor.
• Can I make these ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and stuff the potatoes in advance. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.
• Are these potatoes gluten-free?
  Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free!
• What can I add to the filling? You can add cooked vegetables, herbs, or spices to customize the flavor to your liking.