Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic baked potato, offering a crispy skin, creamy interior, and indulgent fillings. Perfect for a hearty side dish or a satisfying main, they are the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet edge.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes

Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes are an elevated version of the traditional baked potato, where the potato is first baked whole, then the flesh is scooped out, mixed with flavorful ingredients like cheese, cream, and herbs, and the mixture is then stuffed back into the potato skins. Afterward, the potatoes are baked again, resulting in a crispy, golden exterior and a smooth, creamy interior. The second baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a perfect combination of texture and taste.

This method takes a humble potato and transforms it into a rich and satisfying dish, often served as a side or even as a main course for a light meal.

Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 large baking potatoes (preferably Russet or King Edward)
• 50g butter
• 150ml double cream (or heavy cream)
• 100g grated cheese (cheddar or a mix of your choice)
• 2-3 tbsp sour cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (like chives, parsley, or thyme), finely chopped
• Olive oil for brushing
• Bacon bits (optional, for added crunch and flavor)
• Garlic (optional, minced, for extra depth of flavor)

You can also customize the fillings by adding other ingredients like sautéed onions, spinach, or roasted garlic, depending on your preferences.

Equipment Needed

To prepare this dish, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Oven (to bake the potatoes twice)
• Baking tray (for the potatoes)
• Sharp knife (to cut the potatoes in half and scoop out the flesh)
• Spoon (for scooping out the potato flesh)
• Mixing bowl (to combine the potato flesh and other ingredients)
• Fork or masher (for mashing the potato flesh)
• Grater (for the cheese)
• Brush (for applying oil to the potato skins)
• Aluminum foil (optional, to wrap the potatoes for the first bake)

These simple kitchen tools make the process easy and efficient, allowing you to create a truly delicious dish.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes?

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (390°F). Wash the potatoes thoroughly and prick them with a fork. This helps steam escape during the baking process. Place them on a baking tray and bake for about 45 minutes, or until they are soft and tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Once the potatoes are baked, carefully cut them in half lengthwise. Let them cool slightly before scooping out the insides, leaving a small border around the edges. Place the scooped-out potato flesh in a mixing bowl.

Step 3: Mash the Potato Flesh
Mash the scooped potato with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Add butter, double cream, and grated cheese to the mashed potato. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like, add sour cream for extra creaminess and herbs for flavor. You can also incorporate bacon bits or sautéed garlic at this stage for a richer flavor.

Step 4: Stuff the Potato Skins
Carefully spoon the creamy mashed potato mixture back into the empty skins, pressing down lightly to ensure the filling is packed in.

Step 5: Second Bake
Place the stuffed potatoes back onto the baking tray. Brush the skins lightly with olive oil for a golden, crispy finish. Bake in the oven for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the tops are golden and crispy.

Step 6: Serve
Once baked, garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, and enjoy the crispy exterior with the smooth, cheesy interior.

Expert Tips

• Choose the Right Potato: For the best results, go for starchy potatoes like Russets. They yield a fluffy, creamy texture when mashed.
• Add Extra Flavor: If you want to take your potatoes to the next level, try adding a handful of crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms into the filling. The savory flavor will enhance the dish.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the potatoes a day ahead. After the first bake, scoop out the flesh and make the filling. Store the stuffed skins in the fridge and bake them again when you’re ready to serve.
• Don’t Overstuff: When filling the potato skins, try not to overstuff them. Leave a small border around the edges so they hold their shape while baking.
• Use Cheese Wisely: Cheddar works wonderfully, but mixing cheeses like mozzarella for stretch or Parmesan for sharpness can elevate the flavor.

Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes are a fantastic way to transform a simple potato into a gourmet treat. With its crispy skin, creamy filling, and endless customization options, this dish can easily become a household favorite.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a cozy night in, or a special occasion, these double baked potatoes are sure to impress with their perfect balance of flavors and textures. Follow the easy steps and expert tips, and you’ll have a restaurant-quality side dish that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes

Jamie Oliver’s double-baked potatoes are a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized in numerous ways. Whether you’re looking to make them richer, lighter, spicier, or add a bit of a twist, here are a few easy variations to enhance your double-baked potato recipe:

1. Cheddar and Bacon: For a hearty variation, mix crispy bacon bits with sharp cheddar cheese and fresh chives into the potato filling. Top it with even more cheese and bake until golden. This classic flavor combo adds both crunch and creaminess.
2. Mushroom and Spinach: If you’re craving something earthier, sauté mushrooms and spinach with garlic and herbs, and mix it into your potato filling. The earthiness of the mushrooms paired with the creamy potato makes for a perfect match. You could also drizzle with a bit of balsamic vinegar for an extra layer of flavor.
3. Chili and Sour Cream: Add a spicy kick by mixing in some cooked chili (whether beef, chicken, or vegetarian) into the potato filling. Top with a dollop of sour cream, and perhaps even some jalapeños for that extra heat. The sour cream balances out the spice and creates a comforting dish.
4. BBQ Pulled Pork: Transform your double-baked potatoes into a barbecue-inspired treat by mixing in pulled pork. Combine it with cheese and a touch of barbecue sauce, and bake until it’s piping hot. This variation works well if you have leftover pulled pork from a previous meal.
5. Vegetarian Delight: For a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version, load the filling with roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and onions. Add a sprinkle of feta cheese or a drizzle of tahini sauce for a Mediterranean twist.
6. Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese: For an elegant and fresh variation, fold in smoked salmon and cream cheese with some dill and lemon zest. This takes the humble potato to a whole new level, perfect for brunch or a special occasion.

These variations offer endless possibilities. You can experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and fillings based on your personal preferences, making double-baked potatoes a dish that can evolve with every meal.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers properly is essential to preserve the flavor and quality of Jamie Oliver’s double-baked potatoes for the next meal. Here are some best practices to keep them fresh:

1. Cool Before Storing: Allow your double-baked potatoes to cool down to room temperature before storing them. Placing hot potatoes directly into the fridge can cause condensation, leading to sogginess.
2. Airtight Containers: Once cooled, transfer the potatoes into an airtight container. This helps to keep moisture from affecting the texture, and it also keeps the flavor intact.
3. Refrigeration: Store your double-baked potatoes in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Be sure to place them on a shelf where the temperature remains consistent, avoiding the fridge door, where it fluctuates the most.
4. Freezing for Longer Storage: If you want to keep your double-baked potatoes for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap each potato individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat them, simply reheat in the oven.
5. Reheating: To reheat, place the potatoes in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes or until hot and crispy again. If reheating from frozen, it might take a bit longer. For a quicker option, you can microwave them, but the texture may not be as crispy.

What Goes Well With Double Baked Potatoes?

Double-baked potatoes are rich, creamy, and hearty, so they pair well with a variety of dishes. Here are some great options that complement their flavors:

1. Grilled Meats: A juicy steak, grilled chicken, or roasted lamb pairs wonderfully with double-baked potatoes. The creamy texture of the potatoes balances the richness of the meat, creating a satisfying meal.
2. Salads: A light, fresh salad can cut through the richness of the potatoes. Try a tangy lemon and arugula salad, or a crunchy slaw with apple and cabbage. The acidity in the dressing will provide contrast to the richness of the potato.
3. Steamed Vegetables: If you want to keep things on the lighter side, pair your double-baked potatoes with some steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus. These vegetables add freshness and a touch of crunch to your meal.
4. Roast Vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes pair wonderfully with double-baked potatoes, offering an earthy, slightly caramelized contrast to the creamy filling.
5. Gravy or Sauces: A rich gravy or creamy mushroom sauce complements the double-baked potatoes perfectly, adding an additional layer of flavor. You can also try hollandaise or béchamel sauce for an indulgent touch.
6. Wine Pairing: If you’re serving this dish as part of a special dinner, a glass of full-bodied red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, can complement the richness of the potatoes and the savory toppings.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s double-baked potatoes are a fantastic, versatile dish that can be customized in countless ways, offering an exciting base for various flavors and textures. Whether you’re craving something indulgent like cheddar and bacon or lighter like roasted vegetables, you can easily modify the recipe to suit your tastes.

Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy these creamy, comforting potatoes for days to come, while thoughtful pairings with meats, salads, or sauces can elevate your meal to new heights. So go ahead, try some variations, store your leftovers, and enjoy these double-baked beauties time and time again!.

FAQs

What Are Double Baked Potatoes?

Double baked potatoes are a delicious and crispy potato dish where the potatoes are first baked whole, then scooped out and mixed with ingredients like cheese, butter, and cream, before being stuffed back into the potato skins and baked again to create a crispy, golden exterior and creamy interior.

How Do You Make Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes?

To make Jamie Oliver’s double baked potatoes, start by baking whole potatoes until tender. Once they’ve cooled slightly, cut them in half and scoop out the insides.

Mash the potato with ingredients such as butter, cream, cheese, and seasoning, then stuff it back into the skins. Bake them a second time until golden and crispy.

Can I Use Other Types Of Cheese For The Double Baked Potatoes?

Yes, you can use a variety of cheeses in Jamie Oliver’s double baked potatoes. While the recipe commonly uses Cheddar cheese, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

What Can I Add To The Mashed Potato Mixture For Extra Flavor?

To enhance the flavor of the mashed potatoes, you can add ingredients like sour cream, garlic, chives, crispy bacon bits, or even a handful of spinach. Adding some herbs like thyme or rosemary will also elevate the dish.

How Long Should I Bake The Potatoes For The Second Time?

For the second baking, place the stuffed potatoes back in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for around 20-25 minutes, or until the tops are golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning the cheese.

Can I Prepare Jamie Oliver’s Double Baked Potatoes Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes ahead of time. After stuffing the mashed potatoes into the skins, cover them and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake them at 200°C (400°F) for 25-30 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy on top.

Are Double Baked Potatoes Suitable For Vegetarians?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s double baked potatoes are suitable for vegetarians, as long as you use vegetarian-friendly ingredients. For example, make sure to use non-animal-derived butter and cheese.

Can Double Baked Potatoes Be Frozen?

Yes, you can freeze double baked potatoes. After the second baking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. To reheat, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for 30-40 minutes.

What Side Dishes Pair Well With Double Baked Potatoes?

Double baked potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes, including grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. They also go well with a hearty stew or BBQ dishes.

How Do You Make The Skin Extra Crispy On Double Baked Potatoes?

To make the potato skins extra crispy, make sure to coat them lightly with oil or butter before the second bake. You can also sprinkle some sea salt on top for added flavor and crunch.