Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of garlic and herbs wafting through the kitchen, especially when paired with a warm, fluffy potato. Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes are the perfect side dish for a cozy family dinner, a festive holiday feast, or even a casual weekend gathering. This recipe transforms ordinary baked potatoes into a rich, flavorful dish that everyone will crave.

The inspiration behind this recipe comes from a long-standing tradition in many American households: taking a simple baked potato and turning it into a decadent treat. By scooping out the tender potato flesh and mixing it with creamy butter, garlic, herbs, and cheese, then returning it to its crispy skin for a second bake, you create a dish that is both indulgent and homey. The result is a golden, slightly crisp exterior with a smooth, flavorful interior that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, fresh vegetables, or even a simple salad.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply want to elevate a weeknight meal, these Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. They are not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to tweak herbs or toppings based on what’s in season or what your family loves.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup milk

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

2. Prepare the potatoes: Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel.

3. Bake the potatoes: Pierce each potato a few times with a fork and place them on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45–60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

4. Cool slightly: Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes until they are safe to handle.

5. Scoop the flesh: Slice each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato along the skin to maintain its structure. Place the scooped potato flesh in a mixing bowl.

6. Prepare the filling: To the potato flesh, add butter, sour cream, milk, minced garlic, parsley, chives, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.

7. Add cheese (optional): Mix in shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor and richness.

8. Refill the skins: Spoon the creamy potato mixture back into the potato skins, dividing it evenly among all halves. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth the tops.

9. Second bake: Place the stuffed potatoes back onto the baking sheet. Bake for an additional 15–20 minutes at 400°F (200°C), until the tops are lightly golden and the edges are slightly crisp.

10. Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with extra chopped parsley or chives for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes

• Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because of their starchy texture, which becomes fluffy when baked and mashed.

• Don’t overfill the skins: Overstuffing can cause the filling to spill over during the second bake. Leave a small border along the edges.

• Customize your herbs: Feel free to experiment with rosemary, oregano, or dill based on your preference. Fresh herbs add brightness, while dried herbs offer a more concentrated flavor.

• Make ahead: You can prepare the filling a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and refill the potato skins just before baking.

• Add-ins: For extra texture and flavor, consider mixing in cooked spinach, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes are more than just a side dish—they’re a celebration of comfort food at its finest. The creamy, buttery filling infused with fresh herbs and garlic creates a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Meanwhile, the second bake ensures a crispy exterior that contrasts perfectly with the soft interior.

This dish is versatile and can complement almost any main course. Serve it alongside roasted chicken, steak, grilled fish, or a vibrant vegetable medley. It’s also an excellent addition to holiday spreads, potlucks, or family gatherings, as it’s easy to make in larger batches and always receives rave reviews.

Additionally, these potatoes are highly customizable. You can adjust the creaminess, tweak the herb blend, or add your favorite cheese to suit your family’s tastes. This flexibility makes Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potatoes on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the skins soggy.

Variations to Try

• Cheesy Spinach and Garlic Potatoes: Mix in sautéed spinach with the garlic-herb filling for a nutritious twist.

• Mushroom Lovers’ Delight: Fold in caramelized mushrooms to create an earthy, umami-packed flavor.

• Loaded Veggie Style: Add diced bell peppers, green onions, or roasted corn for a colorful, hearty dish.

• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes to add warmth to the creamy filling.

Pairing Suggestions

Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes pair beautifully with a wide range of mains:

• Roasted chicken or turkey: The creamy potatoes complement the savory, golden skin of poultry.

• Steak or beef roasts: The richness of the potatoes balances hearty, meaty flavors.

• Grilled or roasted vegetables: For a lighter meal, pair with seasonal vegetables for color and freshness.

• Salads: Serve with a crisp garden salad or Caesar salad for a balanced meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes are an excellent recipe for meal prep or entertaining because you can prepare them in stages. You can bake the potatoes and make the creamy herb filling up to a day in advance. Store the filling separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and prevent it from becoming watery. When you’re ready to serve, simply refill the potato skins and complete the second bake. This ensures that the potato skins remain crisp while the filling stays flavorful and smooth.

Making them ahead of time is especially useful for busy weeknights, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. For added convenience, you can even partially bake the potatoes a day or two before your event and finish them with the filling right before serving. This way, the dish feels freshly made, but you save significant time on the day you plan to serve it. To elevate presentation, garnish with fresh herbs or a light sprinkle of cheese just before the final bake.

2. Can I use other types of potatoes?
While russet potatoes are preferred for their fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier and naturally buttery consistency. Yukon Golds hold their shape better, which can give a firmer filling but a slightly different mouthfeel compared to russets.

If you choose waxy potatoes, such as red or fingerling potatoes, note that the filling may be denser and less smooth. To adjust, consider adding a little extra butter, milk, or sour cream to reach the desired creaminess. The key is to ensure the potato flesh is fully mashed and blended with the herbs and seasonings, which guarantees that each bite is flavorful and satisfying.

3. How can I make these dairy-free or vegan?
You can easily adapt this recipe to be dairy-free or vegan. Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, use non-dairy milk such as oat or almond milk, and replace sour cream with a vegan option. For a cheesy flavor without dairy, nutritional yeast is a fantastic choice, adding depth and richness to the filling. These adjustments preserve the creamy texture and delicious flavor, making this recipe suitable for a variety of dietary needs while keeping it indulgent and satisfying.

4. Can I freeze these potatoes?
Yes! Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prep or holiday planning. After baking, wrap each potato individually in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until heated through. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can soften the crispy potato skin. Freezing allows you to make a large batch ahead of time so you can enjoy these comforting potatoes whenever you want with minimal effort.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a recipe that’s both comforting and impressive, Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes fit the bill perfectly. They transform a simple potato into a flavorful, herb-infused masterpiece that feels indulgent yet approachable. Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

With just a few simple ingredients, a little time, and some care, you can create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. The beauty of Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes lies not only in their flavor but also in their versatility—customizable, easy to prepare ahead, and suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Next time you want to add a touch of comfort and sophistication to your meal, reach for this recipe. From the golden, crisp skin to the creamy, garlicky interior, every bite is a reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients make the most memorable dishes.

Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe

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• Author: Michelle Davis
• Total Time: 80–100 minutes
• Yield: 4–8 servings 1x

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Description

These Garlic Herb Twice-Baked Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish. Crispy on the outside, creamy and flavorful on the inside, they’re infused with fresh herbs and garlic for a rich, savory taste. Perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or weekend gatherings, this recipe transforms ordinary baked potatoes into a crowd-pleasing treat that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 large russet potatoes

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 1/4 cup sour cream

• 1/4 cup milk

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

• Scrub the potatoes under running water and pat them dry.

• Pierce each potato a few times with a fork and place them on the baking sheet. Bake for 45–60 minutes, or until tender.

• Remove from the oven and let potatoes cool for 10 minutes.

• Slice each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch border. Place the flesh in a mixing bowl.

• Add butter, sour cream, milk, garlic, parsley, chives, thyme, salt, and pepper to the potato flesh and mash until smooth.

• Mix in cheddar or Parmesan cheese if desired.

• Spoon the filling back into the potato skins, smoothing the tops with a spatula.

• Bake the filled potatoes for an additional 15–20 minutes, until tops are lightly golden and edges are slightly crisp.

• Garnish with extra parsley or chives and serve hot.

Notes

• Russet potatoes work best for a fluffy texture.

• Adjust herbs or cheese to taste.

• Make ahead by preparing filling a day in advance.

• Avoid overbaking the second time to prevent dryness.

• Optional add-ins: sautéed spinach, caramelized onions, or roasted garlic for extra flavor.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 60–80 minutes

Michelle Davis