Baked Potatoes with Ham, Mozzarella, and Parmesan

Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prep Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry. Poke a few holes in each potato with a fork. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt.
3. Bake Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Cool Potatoes: Once the potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly until they are comfortable to handle.
2. Scoop Out Flesh: Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a small border of potato around the skin to keep the shells intact. Place the scooped-out potato flesh in a mixing bowl.
3. Mash Potatoes: Add the butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper to the potato flesh. Mash until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Ham and Cheese: Stir in the diced ham, shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Stuff and Bake Again

1. Stuff Potatoes: Spoon the potato mixture back into the potato skins, mounding it slightly.
2. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top of the stuffed potatoes.
3. Bake Again: Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions and fresh parsley, if desired.
2. Serve Hot: Serve the baked potatoes hot, either as a main dish or a hearty side.

Tips for Perfect Baked Potatoes with Ham, Mozzarella, and Parmesan:

• Potato Selection: Choose large, evenly sized russet potatoes for the best results.
• Creamy Texture: Adjust the amount of milk and sour cream to achieve your desired level of creaminess in the potato filling.
• Additional Fillings: Feel free to customize the filling with other ingredients like cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or chopped vegetables.
• Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, Gruyère, or fontina for a unique flavor twist.

Enjoy these hearty and delicious Baked Potatoes with Ham, Mozzarella, and Parmesan for a comforting and satisfying meal!