As I stepped into the kitchen, the earthy aroma of russet potatoes roasting in the oven instantly transformed my morning. There’s something deeply satisfying about a hearty breakfast, and these Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes hit the spot every time. Imagine the crispy exterior giving way to a comforting, buttery filling, loaded with gooey cheddar, smoky beef bacon, and a perfectly cracked egg. Not only are they a gluten-free breakfast delight, but they also shine as an easy meal prep solution for the week ahead. Whether you’re hosting a leisurely brunch or just looking to fuel your day, these potatoes promise to make each bite a cozy hug for your soul. Curious how to whip up this delightful comfort food? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Will You Love This Recipe?
Hearty Comfort: These Twice-Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes are the embodiment of a cozy breakfast. Your taste buds will dance with delight as you savor each bite.
Easy Meal Prep: Perfect for busy mornings! Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week—just reheat and serve alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Customizable: Whether you prefer smoky beef bacon or turkey bacon, the choice is yours! Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack to suit your palate.
Crowd-Pleasing: Ideal for brunch gatherings, these potatoes are sure to impress family and friends alike, making them a star on your table.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free and packed with protein, they cater to various dietary needs without compromising on taste. Whether you’re looking for an energizing breakfast or a comforting dish, these potatoes deliver!
If you love easy and delicious meal ideas, check out Oven Baked Chicken or Garlic Butter Potatoes for more wholesome inspiration!
Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes Ingredients
For the Potatoes
- Large Russet Potatoes – Provides a fluffy interior and crispy skin; make sure they are large enough to hold an egg.
- Avocado Oil – Coats potatoes for flavor and crispiness; can substitute with olive oil if preferred.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste for the perfect flavor.
For the Filling
- Unsalted Butter – Adds richness to the mashed potato filling for a creamy texture.
- Hot Milk – Creates a smooth, creamy consistency; use cream for a more indulgent taste.
- Beef Bacon – Offers a smoky flavor without the need for pre-cooking; swap with turkey bacon for a lighter option.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides gooeyness and flavor; feel free to substitute with gouda or pepper jack for a twist.
- Large Eggs – Perfectly baked in the potato skins, adding protein and richness to each bite.
These Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes are a delightful way to kick off your day—with a comforting bite that you’ll come back to time and time again!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, wash the large russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water, ensuring they’re clean. Using a fork, poke holes all over the potatoes to allow steam to escape while baking. Next, rub each potato generously with avocado oil and season with salt and black pepper, making them ready for the oven.
Step 2: Bake the Potatoes
Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake them for 50 to 60 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and the skin is crispy. When done, carefully remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes, allowing you to handle them without burning your fingers for the next steps of your Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes.
Step 3: Halve and Scoop
Once cooled, cut each baked potato in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the inside of the potato, leaving about a quarter-inch of flesh to maintain the structure of the skin. Transfer the scooped potato to a mixing bowl, mashing it with hot milk and unsalted butter until creamy. Season the mixture with more salt and pepper to taste, creating a rich filling for your Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes.
Step 4: Fill the Potato Shells
Take the mashed potato mixture and generously fill each half of the potato skins, creating a slight well in the center for toppings. Make sure the filling is heaped high, as this will hold the deliciousness to come. The Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes are now ready for their flavorful toppings, so ensure an even distribution for the ultimate bite.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Place halves of beef bacon into the wells of the filled potato skins, tucking them into the fluffy potato mixture. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each filled potato. Finally, crack a large egg gently on top of each half, careful not to break the yolk. Season the eggs with a pinch of salt and pepper for a delightful flavor burst as they cook.
Step 6: Bake Again
Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and return the Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes to the oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, watching closely until the egg whites are set, but the yolks remain slightly runny for that perfect breakfast touch. The cheese should be melted and bubbly, contributing to a savory and gorgeous topping.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool for a couple of minutes before serving. This wait will help the eggs set slightly and make for easier handling. Serve your Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes hot, either as a full breakfast treat or paired with a light salad for a balanced meal. Dive into this comforting dish that is sure to please your palate!
Expert Tips for Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes
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Poke Holes Well: Ensure you poke enough holes in the potatoes before baking. This prevents them from bursting and creates an even cooking environment.
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Fluffy Filling Trick: For a lighter, fluffier filling, whip the mashed potato mixture vigorously. This adds air and improves the texture for your Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes.
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Egg Monitor: Keep a close eye on the baking time for the eggs. If you prefer runny yolks, remove the potatoes from the oven as soon as the whites are set.
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Crispy Reheating: When reheating leftovers, use the oven instead of the microwave. This helps maintain the crispy skin and cheesy topping, ensuring that each bite is as delightful as the first.
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Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheese varieties like gouda or pepper jack for unique flavors. Just ensure they melt well to enhance your Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes!
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Herb Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like chives or parsley before serving for a pop of color and a burst of flavor.
Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor these Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes to your taste buds!
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the filling to bring some heat to each bite. A dash of hot sauce can also elevate the flavor beautifully.
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Turkey Twist: Swap out beef bacon for turkey bacon or even crumbled chicken sausage for a lighter, yet still delicious option that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
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Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers into the mashed potato mixture for a heartier, veggie-packed breakfast. The textures will add a delightful surprise!
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Herb Fabulous: Enhance flavor with fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or cilantro sprinkled on top before serving. These bursts of freshness will brighten up every bite.
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Cheesy Delight: Experiment with different cheeses such as gouda for a smoky flavor, pepper jack for some heat, or even a creamy blue cheese for a gourmet twist.
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Savory & Sweet: Add caramelized onions or roasted garlic to the mashed filling for a sweet twist that pairs wonderfully with the savory bacon and cheese.
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Breakfast Veggie: Take it further by adding a little sautéed zucchini or summer squash into the potato mixture, bringing a lovely moisture and taste contrast.
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Egg Styles: For a fun twist, try using scrambled eggs instead of baked eggs or even a poached egg for an elegant presentation.
With these variations, you can make your Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes unique each time. They are sure to impress anyone at your brunch table, just like my popular Oven Baked Chicken or Garlic Butter Potatoes! Get cooking and enjoy those smiles around your table!
What to Serve with Twice-Baked Breakfast Potatoes
As you prepare these comforting Twice-Baked Breakfast Potatoes, why not elevate your meal with some delightful pairings?
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad balances the richness of the potatoes, adding a refreshing crunch with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette.
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Herbed Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of herbed yogurt adds a creamy, tangy contrast that perfectly complements the cheesy, savory goodness of the potatoes.
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Sautéed Spinach: The earthy flavor of sautéed spinach offers a nutritious counterpoint, enriching your breakfast and providing a burst of freshness.
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Roasted Veggies: Pairing with colorful roasted vegetables brings textural variety and seasonal flavors, creating a vibrant and well-rounded plate.
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Crispy Breakfast Sausage: The smoky, savory notes of sausage match beautifully with the potatoes, ensuring a hearty start to your day with added protein.
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Homemade Fruit Compote: A sweet fruit compote brings a delightful contrast, enhancing the flavors of your meal with a touch of natural sweetness.
The key is to choose side dishes that balance the rich flavors while adding fresh elements to your dining experience. Enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Twice-Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes are a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy hearty breakfasts with ease! You can prepare the mashed potato filling and fill the potato skins up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them covered in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. If you’d like, you can also bake the potatoes without the eggs and toppings, and assemble them just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, add the eggs and bake them directly from the refrigerator, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time. Trust me, they’ll be just as delicious and ready to fuel your busy mornings!
How to Store and Freeze Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before sealing to preserve freshness.
Freezer: These Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To reheat, remove from the fridge or freezer, and place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This method keeps the skin crispy and the filling creamy.
Preparation for Freezing: If freezing, consider baking them without the eggs. Add the eggs just before reheating to ensure a fresh and perfectly cooked breakfast treat.
Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using large russet potatoes. They provide a fluffy interior that holds up nicely when baked twice, ensuring each bite is light and creamy. Avoid smaller sizes, as they won’t be able to accommodate an egg properly.
How should I store leftovers of Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they are fully cooled before sealing to preserve freshness and taste. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven for the ultimate crispy texture!
Can I freeze Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes?
Absolutely! These delightful potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. To do so, wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. If you prefer freshly baked eggs, consider baking them without the eggs. Add the eggs just before reheating to maintain their perfect texture!
How can I ensure my eggs are cooked perfectly?
That’s a great question! To achieve that ideal runny yolk, keep a close eye on the baking time. Once the egg whites are set but the yolks still jiggle slightly, it’s time to take them out. This usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to adjust based on your oven!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! These Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes are naturally gluten-free, making them a fantastic option for anyone with gluten sensitivities. If you’re concerned about dietary restrictions, be mindful when selecting bacon; you can easily substitute beef bacon with turkey bacon or even chicken sausage. Additionally, keep an eye on cheese types for any lactose issues.
What should I do if my potatoes burst while baking?
No worries! The key to preventing your potatoes from bursting is to poke plenty of holes in them before baking—this allows steam to escape. If you do find a few brave potatoes that popped, you can still salvage them! Just scoop out the insides and proceed with the recipe as directed.
Twice Baked Loaded Breakfast Potatoes for a Cozy Morning Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water. Poke holes all over the potatoes with a fork, rub with avocado oil, and season with salt and black pepper.
- Place potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 50 to 60 minutes until fork-tender and crispy.
- Cut each baked potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the inside, leaving a quarter-inch of flesh. Mash the potato with hot milk and butter until creamy, and season with salt and pepper.
- Fill each potato half with the mashed mixture, creating a well in the center for toppings.
- Add beef bacon to the wells, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, and crack an egg gently on top of each half.
- Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until egg whites are set but yolks are slightly runny.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes before serving.
