Spanish Style Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe

Listen up, because I’m about to introduce you to a twice-baked potato that’s straight fire: imagine crispy russets loaded with spicy chorizo, creamy Manchego, and topped off with a sprinkling of smoked paprika for that Spanish flair—get ready to elevate your potato game in the most epic way possible!

This Spanish Style Twice Baked Potatoes recipe, rich with the flavors of spicy chorizo and creamy Manchego cheese, is one I love to create. I think russet potatoes are a good foundation for this recipe, especially when you add the hint of smoked paprika and the source of comfort that is sour cream.

Somehow the unsalted butter and green onions melt into the potatoes, and add the perfect touch. Maybe you should try them.

Both the recipe and the potatoes.

Ingredients

• Russet Potatoes: High in carbohydrates, they offer energy and are a good source of fiber.
• Spicy Chorizo: Rich in protein and spices, adds a flavorful, smoky kick.
• Manchego Cheese: Provides calcium and protein, with a nutty, rich taste.
• Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang, while offering some calcium and fat.
• Smoked Paprika: Infuses a deep, smoky flavor, high in antioxidants.
• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats, enhances overall flavor.

Ingredient Quantities

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup spicy chorizo, crumbled and cooked
• 1 cup Manchego cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

How to Make this

1. Set your oven to 400° F (200° C) to get started. Give the potatoes a good wash and dry them thoroughly so that they are ready for the next step. Use a fork to poke several holes in the potatoes—this is a necessary step to allow steam to escape during baking. Your potatoes are now ready to be dressed with olive oil, which you will rub over the entire surface. It is equally important to apply an even amount of salt over the surface as well. You will bake the potatoes for about 1 hour, either directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.

2. When the oven has finished baking the potatoes, take them out and permit them a few minutes to cool. Then, turn the oven down to 350° (180°C).

3. Slice each potato in half lengthwise and do it carefully. Take a spoon and use it to scoop out the flesh, but leave a thin layer around the skin to maintain structure. Put all the scooped-out potato flesh into a large mixing bowl.

4. Include whole milk, sour cream, and butter in a bowl. Mash until the mixture takes on a smooth and creamy texture. Add in smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

5. Mix the prepared chorizo and half of the shredded Manchego cheese into the mashed potatoes.

6. Distribute the mashed mix evenly back into the potatoes, refilling them and mounding them slightly.

7. Evenly distribute the leftover Manchego cheese over the potatoes that have already been filled.

8. Put the baking sheet in the oven and line it with parchment paper. Place the potatoes on it and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Check after 20 minutes; the cheese should be melted and golden brown.

9. Take out the potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool a little. If you want, use sliced green onions and chopped parsley for garnish.

10. Serve the potatoes, baked twice Spanish style, hot. They make a delectable side dish or a light meal. Dig in and enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven
2. Baking sheet
3. Parchment paper
4. Fork
5. Knife
6. Spoon
7. Large mixing bowl
8. Potato masher or fork for mashing
9. Measuring spoons
10. Measuring cups

FAQ

• What kind of potatoes should I use?Select large russet potatoes for optimal flavor and texture.
• Can I use a different type of cheese?Indeed, although Manchego is the classic choice, you may opt to use sharp cheddar or any other melty cheese instead.
• Is there a substitute for chorizo?You can use sausage with spices or leave out the meat for a version that vegetarians can eat.
• Can I make this recipe in advance?Certainly, you can prepare and stuff the potatoes well in advance of serving. Then, when it’s time to eat, simply bake them for the second time, as directed, and serve.
• What can I use instead of sour cream?Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt for a bathroom scale-friendly version.
• How do I ensure the potatoes are cooked properly?Bake until they are tender, which usually takes about 1 hour, and check by piercing them with a fork to see if they go through easily.

Spanish Style Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Substitute for russet potatoes:
Sweet potatoes or Yukon gold potatoes can be used for a different flavor and texture.
To make spicy chorizo: Use Italian sausage or spicy vegetarian sausage as an alternative.
When it comes to Manchego cheese: Use cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese for a comparable melty texture.
Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as a substitute for sour cream.
For smoked paprika: You can use normal paprika or cayenne pepper. Just know that if you use cayenne, your dish will be spicier.

Pro Tips

1. Fluffy Potatoes Tip For extra fluffy insides, after baking, run the scooped-out potato flesh through a potato ricer before mashing. This helps achieve a smoother texture without overworking the starches.

2. Chorizo Crispiness Ensure the chorizo is cooked until crisp before mixing it into the potato filling. This will add a delightful texture contrast and enhance the savory flavors.

3. Flavor Infusion Toss the potato skins lightly with a bit more olive oil and a sprinkle of smoked paprika before the second bake. This will infuse more flavor into the skins and make them extra crispy.

4. Cheese Melting Method To achieve a perfect golden crust on the Manchego cheese, switch the oven to broil for the last 2 minutes of baking. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.

5. Make-Ahead Option Prepare the stuffed potatoes up to the second bake, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake them for an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure they’re heated through. This makes them a convenient dish for entertaining.