Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Skins

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The Recipe: Twice-Baked Sweet Potato Skins

  • Prep time: 15 minutes

  • Cook time: 1 hour 15 minutes

  • Servings: 4 (2 skins per person)

Ingredients

  • 4 medium sweet potatoes (uniform in size for even cooking)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt (or sour cream)

  • 1/4 cup milk (any variety)

  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)

  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. The First Bake: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Scrub the potatoes, pat them dry, and prick them a few times with a fork. Rub with olive oil and a pinch of salt. Bake directly on the rack for 45–50 minutes until tender.

  2. The Prep: Let the potatoes cool for 10 minutes. Slice them in half lengthwise.

  3. The Scoop: Carefully scoop out the orange flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving about a 1/4-inch border against the skin. This “shell” keeps the potato from collapsing.

  4. The Filling: Mash the potato flesh with the Greek yogurt, milk, garlic powder, half of the cheese, and half of the bacon. Season generously with salt and pepper.

  5. The Second Bake: Spoon the mixture back into the skins. Top with the remaining cheese and bacon. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

  6. The Finish: Bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are starting to crisp. Top with fresh green onions before serving.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

Calories Protein Net Carbs Fat Fiber
285 12g 32g 12g 5g

Pro Tips for Success

  • The “Crispy” Secret: If you want extra crispy skins, brush the empty shells with a little extra oil and bake them face-down for 5 minutes before filling them.

  • Don’t Over-Mash: Use a hand masher rather than a food processor. You want a little texture, not a purée.

  • The Size Matters: Choose “slender” sweet potatoes rather than giant, round ones. They bake faster and provide a better skin-to-filling ratio.

Health Benefits

  • Beta-Carotene: Sweet potatoes are champions of Vitamin A, essential for eye health and immune function.

  • Lower Glycemic Index: Compared to white potatoes, sweet potatoes provide a slower release of energy, keeping you full longer.

  • Potassium Power: Great for heart health and muscle recovery.

Common Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I make these vegetarian?

A: Absolutely. Swap the bacon for smoked paprika or “facon” bits. You can also top them with black beans for extra protein.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 180°C to maintain the crispness; the microwave tends to make the skins soggy.

Q: Can I freeze these?

A: Yes! Flash-freeze them on a tray after the “scoop and fill” stage (Step 5) but before the final bake. Wrap tightly. When ready to eat, bake from frozen for 25–30 minutes.

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