Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 large potatoes, scrubbed and dried
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 2 jalapenos, seeded and diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special Equipment Needed:
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Knife
- Fork
- Mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Pierce the potatoes several times with a fork.
4. Place potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Let potatoes cool slightly.
6. Cut potatoes in half lengthwise.
7. Scoop out the insides of the potatoes, leaving a thin layer of potato on the skins.
8. In a medium bowl, mix together the cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, jalapenos, chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
9. Spoon the mixture into the potato skins.
10. Place the potatoes back on the baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Time:
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 55 minutes
Temperature: 400 degrees F
Serving Size: 8
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 250
Fat: 15 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Protein: 8 g
Substitutions for Ingredients
- For the cream cheese, you can substitute Greek yogurt or sour cream.
- For the cheddar cheese, you can substitute any other type of cheese.
- For the bacon, you can substitute cooked and crumbled sausage or ham.
- For the jalapenos, you can substitute bell peppers or poblano peppers.
Variations:
- For a spicier version, add more jalapenos or use a hotter variety of pepper.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use a plant-based alternative.
- For a vegan version, omit the cheese and use a vegan cream cheese alternative.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to pierce the potatoes several times with a fork before baking to ensure even cooking.
- To make the potatoes crispier, broil them for a few minutes after baking.
Storage Instructions:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions:
Reheat in the oven at 350 degrees F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Presentation Ideas:
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives.
- Garnish with fresh jalapeno slices.
Garnishes:
- Fresh jalapeno slices
- Chopped chives
- Sour cream
Pairings:
- A crisp green salad
- A light and refreshing fruit salad
Suggested Side Dishes:
- Roasted vegetables
- Grilled corn on the cob
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the potatoes are not cooked through after baking, return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling raw ingredients.
- Make sure to cook the potatoes until they are tender before adding the filling.
Food History:
Jalapeno poppers are a popular appetizer that originated in the United States in the 1980s. The classic version is made with jalapenos stuffed with a mixture of cream cheese and cheddar cheese, then deep-fried. This version of jalapeno popper potato skins is a healthier, oven-baked alternative.
Flavor Profiles:
This dish has a creamy, cheesy flavor with a hint of smokiness from the bacon and a slight kick from the jalapenos.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as an appetizer or side dish.
- Serve with a dipping sauce such as ranch dressing or barbecue sauce.
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