Preparing the Potatoes
- Bake the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick the potatoes all over with a fork, then place them directly on the oven rack. Bake until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a knife, about 45-60 minutes, depending on their size.
- Cool and Halve: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. When they’re cool enough to handle, cut each potato in half lengthwise.
- Scoop Out the Flesh: Carefully scoop out the flesh of each potato half, leaving a thin layer of potato inside the skin to maintain its structure. Place the scooped-out potato flesh in a large mixing bowl.
Making the Filling
- Mash the Potato Flesh: Add the melted butter to the bowl with the potato flesh. Mash the mixture until smooth. You can adjust the texture according to your preference by adding a bit more butter or a splash of milk if desired.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the cottage cheese, sour cream, crumbled bacon, and green onions into the mashed potato mixture. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Stuffing the Potatoes
- Fill the Potato Skins: Spoon the potato-cottage cheese mixture back into the hollowed-out potato skins, dividing it evenly among them. If using, sprinkle the top of each stuffed potato with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake Again: Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese (if used) is melted.
Serving
- Garnish and Serve: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven. Garnish with additional sour cream, if desired, and sprinkle with fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Enjoy: Serve the potatoes hot, as a standalone dish or paired with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Potatoes stuffed with cottage cheese and bacon are a testament to the comfort and satisfaction that simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can bring to the table. This dish is versatile, allowing for variations such as adding different herbs, using flavored cottage cheese, or incorporating other types of cheese for the topping. It’s a warm, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a more festive gathering. Enjoy the rich flavors and delightful textures of this comforting dish.