Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup diced pimentos
- 1/4 cup diced green onions
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Knife
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and pierce them with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
4. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato in the skin.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, diced pimentos, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Spoon the pimento cheese mixture into the potato skins, filling them to the top.
7. Return the potato skins to the baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Oven temperature: 400°F (200°C)
Serving size:
- This recipe makes 12 potato skins.
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 230
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Protein: 6g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of cheese you like instead of cheddar.
- Greek yogurt can be used instead of mayonnaise.
- Roasted red peppers can be used instead of pimentos.
Variations:
- Add cooked bacon bits to the pimento cheese mixture for extra flavor.
- Top the potato skins with sliced jalapenos for a spicy kick.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a healthier option.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to pierce the potatoes with a fork before baking to prevent them from exploding in the oven.
- Scoop out the potato flesh carefully to avoid tearing the skins.
- You can make the pimento cheese mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover potato skins in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat, place the potato skins on a baking sheet and bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the potato skins on a platter with a sprinkle of chopped green onions on top.
Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley or cilantro can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli
- Grilled asparagus
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the potato skins are not crispy enough, you can broil them for a few minutes at the end of baking.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to wash your hands and all utensils before handling food.
- Store any leftovers in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking.
Food history:
- Potato skins have been a popular appetizer in the United States since the 1970s.
Flavor profiles:
- The pimento cheese mixture is creamy and tangy, while the potato skins are crispy and savory.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the potato skins as an appetizer or a side dish.
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