Classic Jacket Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spring Onion Recipe
Introduction
Classic jacket potatoes are a comforting and versatile meal perfect for any time of day. With a crisp skin and fluffy interior, they pair wonderfully with a variety of toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 4 large baking potatoes
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 200ml soured cream
- 50g cheddar, grated
- 4 crispy bacon rashers, chopped
- 4 spring onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 220°C (200°C fan/gas mark 7). Rub each potato with a little olive oil to coat the skins evenly.
- Step 2: Place the potatoes on the top shelf of the oven and bake for 20 minutes.
- Step 3: Reduce the oven temperature to 190°C (170°C fan/gas mark 5) and bake the potatoes for a further 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the skins are crisp and the flesh inside is soft.
- Step 4: Remove the potatoes from the oven and cut a cross on the top of each one. Gently squeeze the sides to open them up.
- Step 5: Add a dollop of soured cream and top with grated cheddar, chopped bacon, and spring onions as desired.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, sprinkle the potatoes with a little sea salt before baking to enhance the crispiness of the skin.
- Try different toppings such as baked beans, tuna mayonnaise, or sautéed mushrooms for variety.
- To make the baking process quicker, you can microwave the potatoes for 5-7 minutes before roasting to soften them slightly.
Storage
Store any leftover jacket potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 180°C (160°C fan) for 15-20 minutes to keep the skin crisp, or microwave for a quicker option, though the skin may soften.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use any type of potato for jacket potatoes?
For the best results, choose large baking or floury potatoes such as Russets or Maris Piper. These have a fluffy texture when cooked and crisp well on the outside.
How do I know when the potato is fully cooked?
The potato is done when the skin is crisp and a skewer or fork slides easily into the center without resistance. The flesh inside should be soft and steaming hot.
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Classic Jacket Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spring Onion Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Classic jacket potatoes are a comforting and versatile baked potato dish with a crispy skin and fluffy interior, topped with luscious soured cream, melted cheddar cheese, crunchy bacon, and fresh spring onions. Perfect as a satisfying snack or a simple meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 large baking potatoes
- 2 tsp olive oil
Toppings
- 200ml soured cream
- 50g cheddar, grated
- 4 crispy bacon rashers, chopped
- 4 spring onions, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare potatoes: Heat the oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Rub each potato with a little olive oil to coat the skin evenly. This helps to crisp the skin during baking.
- Bake the potatoes at high heat: Place the oiled potatoes on the top shelf of the oven and bake for 20 minutes. This initial high temperature jumpstarts the cooking and skin crisping process.
- Reduce temperature and continue baking: Lower the oven temperature to 190C/170C fan/gas 5. Bake the potatoes for an additional 45 minutes to 1 hour until the skins are crisp and the inside flesh is soft when tested with a skewer.
- Prepare the potato for serving: Remove the baked potatoes from the oven. Using a knife, cut a cross shape on the top of each potato. Gently squeeze the sides to open up the potato, creating a pocket.
- Add toppings: Place a generous dollop of soured cream into the potato, then sprinkle with grated cheddar cheese. Top further with chopped crispy bacon and thinly sliced spring onions to add flavor and texture.
Notes
- For extra crispy skin, prick the potatoes with a fork before rubbing with oil.
- Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the potatoes; larger potatoes may require up to an hour or slightly more.
- To make this dish vegetarian, omit the bacon or substitute with grilled mushrooms or vegetarian bacon.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead by baking potatoes in advance and reheating before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: jacket potatoes, baked potatoes, classic jacket potato recipe, potato with cheese and bacon, easy baked potato
