Mediterranean-Friendly Cheesy Bacon Stuffed Potatoes Recipe
This mouthwatering recipe combines the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with the comfort of loaded baked potatoes. Golden, crispy potato skins are filled with a creamy mixture of fluffy potato, Greek yogurt, crumbled feta, crispy turkey bacon, fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a touch of garlic. Topped with a melty layer of mozzarella or a sprinkle of grated kefalotyri, these stuffed potatoes deliver a perfect balance of smoky, cheesy, and herby flavors. Garnish with fresh parsley or oregano for a vibrant finish. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
4 large baking potatoes (e.g., russet or Yukon gold)
4 strips of turkey bacon (or pancetta, if preferred)
1 cup Greek yogurt (substitute for sour cream)
1 cup shredded cheese (use feta, mozzarella, or a blend)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional toppings: chopped sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, or diced red onions.
Instructions:
Bake the Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash the potatoes, pat them dry, and poke holes with a fork. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Place on a baking tray and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until fork-tender.
Prepare the Filling
Cook the turkey bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Let it cool and crumble into small pieces.
In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, half of the cheese, turkey bacon, garlic, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Scoop and Stuff
Once the potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly, then cut them in half lengthwise.
Carefully scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving a thin shell. Add the scooped potato to the filling mixture and mash until smooth.
Stuff and Bake
Fill each potato shell with the mixture, mounding it slightly.
Top with the remaining cheese.
Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve
Garnish with additional parsley and your choice of Mediterranean toppings. Serve warm.
Notes:
For a vegetarian option, replace the turkey bacon with roasted vegetables like bell peppers or eggplant.
Use non-fat Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Tips
Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best as their fluffy interior complements the creamy filling.
Crisp Bacon First: Cooking turkey bacon until crispy ensures the best texture.
Pre-Bake for Meal Prep: Bake the potatoes ahead of time and assemble them just before serving.
Experiment with Herbs: Add basil or thyme for variation in flavor.
Keep Mediterranean Add-ons Handy: Kalamata olives or a drizzle of olive oil elevate the dish’s Mediterranean flair.
This recipe brings comfort food with a Mediterranean twist, balancing creamy and tangy flavors with wholesome ingredients!