WRAPPED POTATO WITH BACON

INGREDIENTS:

4 large russet potatoes

8 slices of thick-cut bacon

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup chopped green onions

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Salt and pepper to taste

DIRECTIONS:

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature ensures that the bacon becomes crispy, and the potatoes cook to perfection.

Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Using a fork, pierce the potatoes several times to allow steam to escape during baking. This prevents the potatoes from bursting.

Wrap in Bacon: Lay out the bacon slices on a cutting board. Depending on the size of your potatoes, you may need to cut the bacon slices in half. Wrap each potato with 2 slices of bacon, securing them with toothpicks if necessary. The bacon adds a smoky flavor and a delightful crunch to the dish.

Bake the Potatoes: Place the bacon-wrapped potatoes on a baking sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the bacon is crispy. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your potatoes, so check for doneness by inserting a fork into the center of a potato.

Prepare the Filling: While the potatoes are baking, prepare the filling. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the ingredients until well combined, creating a rich and creamy filling for the potatoes.

Stuff the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done baking, carefully remove them from the oven. Allow them to cool slightly before handling. Cut a slit lengthwise in the top of each potato, creating a pocket for the filling. Gently fluff the insides with a fork.

Add the Filling: Spoon the prepared filling into each potato, ensuring an even distribution. The warmth of the potatoes will melt the cheese and create a luscious, gooey texture.

Garnish and Serve: Garnish the stuffed potatoes with additional chopped green onions for a burst of freshness and color. Remove any toothpicks used to secure the bacon. Serve the Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Potatoes hot, and watch as your guests marvel at the delightful combination of flavors and textures.