Caprese Twice Baked Potatoes

5.0 from 23 votes

Caprese twice baked potatoes are a delicious and hearty side dish that is perfect for any occasion. The combination of roasted potatoes with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil creates a flavor explosion that is sure to impress your guests. This dish is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

They are perfect for entertaining and the holidays and always a hug hit!  This Twice Baked Potato recipe is completely customizable and can be transformed into a complete meal with the addition of chicken, beef. Caprese baked potatoes are a crowd-pleasing side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Twice Baked Potatoes can also be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen (instructions included) for an easy heat and eat side dish or dinner!

More stuffed baked potatoes recipes:

• Baked Potatoes with Veal Ragu
• Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Chickpeas and Spinach

What are Twice Baked Potatoes?

Twice Baked Potatoes are potatoes that are baked twice before they are ready to be served.  First, the potatoes are baked until tender.  Next, they are sliced in half and the soft insides scooped out, leaving a hollow potato skin shell.

The fluffy inside potato pulp is then mixed with fillings such as butter, milk, sour cream, and cheese to virtually create thick mashed potatoes.

This potato mixture is then scooped back into the potato shell, and topped with more cheese and baked for the second time – earning the name, twice bake potatoes!

Ingredients

Russet Potatoes – for best result try and choose similar shape and size potatoes so they bake evenly.
Olive oil
Marinara sauce
Fresh mozzarella ball, sliced
Grape tomatoes, cut in half
Basil leaves, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper

When preparing Caprese Baked Potatoes I recommend using medium russet potatoes or red skin potatoes for this recipe. These potatoes are perfect for baking and have a fluffy texture that pairs well with the Caprese salad toppings.

For the Caprese salad, you will need cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves. I suggest using mozzarella pearls or dividing the mozzarella into small pieces for easy melting. You can also add balsamic vinegar and Italian seasoning to enhance the flavor of the dish.

How to Make Caprese Stuffed Baked Potatoes

To begin, preheat the oven to 400°F/ 200C and line a large baking dish/ sheet pan with parchment paper.

Wash and dry the potatoes before piercing them with a fork several times. This will allow the steam to escape while baking and prevent the potatoes from exploding. Brush them with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper, then place them in the preheated oven. Roast for 45-60 minutes until they’re fork tender.

Once the potatoes are done, carefully slice them in half. Mash the insides of the potatoes using a fork and season them again with salt and pepper and add some marinara sauce on top of them.

Once the potato skins are ready, it’s time to assemble the Caprese layers. Begin by adding a layer of mozzarella pearls or divided mozzarella, followed by a layer of grape tomatoes on top.

Finally, place the potatoes back in the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly. Garnish with a fresh basil and serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

Caprese stuffed baked potato recipe is perfect for summer dinners. They add a summer flare to any meal and are sure to impress your guests. I like to serve them drizzled with balsamic vinegar alongside grilled chicken breasts for a complete meal.

To serve, I place the potatoes on a platter and drizzle some balsamic glaze on top. I then sprinkle some chopped basil and a pinch of salt and pepper for some added flavor. These potatoes are sure to be a hit at any dinner party or gathering.

Storage

Refrigeration: If you have leftover Caprese Baked Potatoes, let them cool down to room temperature first. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. Place them in the refrigerator promptly. Properly stored, they can last for about 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing: Caprese Baked Potatoes can also be frozen for longer-term storage. Again, let them cool completely before freezing. Wrap each individual potato tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Properly frozen, they can last for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing and Reheating: When you’re ready to eat them, thaw frozen Caprese Baked Potatoes in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them in the oven at a low temperature (around 300°F or 150°C) until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat, as this can cause them to become mushy.

Toppings: If your Caprese Baked Potatoes have fresh toppings like tomatoes, basil, or mozzarella, consider adding these fresh after reheating for the best flavor and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I ensure my baked potatoes aren’t soggy?

To ensure your baked potatoes aren’t soggy, it is important to use the right type of potato and to bake them at the correct temperature for the right amount of time. Russet potatoes are the best choice for baking, as they have a higher starch content that helps them cook evenly and hold their shape. Additionally, baking at 400°F for about an hour will ensure that your potatoes are cooked through and crispy on the outside.

What are some variations of the traditional Caprese baked potato recipe?

There are many variations of the traditional Caprese baked potato recipe. Some people like to add bacon or prosciutto for extra flavor, while others like to use different types of cheese, such as feta or goat cheese. You can also experiment with different types of herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.

Is it necessary to wrap potatoes in foil before baking for Caprese style?

No, it is not necessary to wrap potatoes in foil before baking for Caprese style. Wrapping potatoes in foil can actually trap moisture and lead to soggy potatoes. Instead, simply place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake until they are cooked through and crispy on the outside.

What are the best toppings for a Caprese-inspired baked potato?

The best toppings for a Caprese-inspired baked potato include cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, mozzarella cheese, balsamic vinegar, and olive oil. You can also add other toppings, such as bacon, prosciutto, or different types of cheese, to create your own unique flavor combination.

How long should I bake little potatoes when making a Caprese dish?

When making a Caprese dish with little potatoes, bake them at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and crispy on the outside. Be sure to adjust the baking time as needed based on the size of your potatoes.