Easy Fancy Spuds

What started as a reason to make twice baked potatoes turned into a steak dinner turned into a surprise party for our favorite neighbor Val. We usually do not see her much during the winter since we are all inside, but come spring and summer - we spend a lot of time talking over the fence. I decided it had been too long and invited her for dinner. I looked at the calendar and realized it was her birthday the follow Monday... well then great - let's have a party! These potatoes were perfect. I was able to make them ahead, and they made 16 - so I have some for the freezer for two more meals at some point. I did not add the extra cheese on top because I'm a rebel and I forgot. Cold from the fridge these took an hour in the oven... but warm from freshly made I could see them taking less time. These were the perfect fancy/non fancy addition to our yummy meal. It was fun to celebrate our friend and we look forward to lots of chats over the fence.

Twice-Baked Potatoes

8 baking potatoes, washed
3 tablespoons canola oil
1 stick salted butter
1 cup sour cream
1 cup Cheddar cheese
1 cup whole milk
2 teaspoons seasoned salt
3 green onions, sliced
Freshly ground black pepper

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
Place the potatoes on a baking sheet. Rub them with the canola oil and bake for 1 hour, making sure they're sufficiently cooked through.
Slice the butter into pats. Place in a large mixing bowl and add the sour cream. Remove the potatoes from the oven. Lower the heat to 350 degrees F.
With a sharp knife, cut each potato in half lengthwise. Scrape out the insides into the mixing bowl, being careful not to tear the shell. Leave a small rim of potato intact for support. Lay the hollowed out potato shells on a baking sheet.
Smash the potatoes into the butter, bacon and sour cream. Add the cheese, milk, seasoned salt, green onions and black pepper to taste and mix together well.
Fill the potato shells with the filling. Top each potato with a little more grated cheese and pop 'em in the oven until the potato is warmed through, 15 to 20 minutes.