Double Baked Potato Skins with Peanut Butter

This quirky recipe for Double Baked Potato Skins with Peanut Butter is inspired by a hilarious episode from the famous TV show Friends. Known for its unconventional approach to traditional dishes, this recipe offers a unique twist on classic potato skins, making it memorable not only for Friends fans but also for adventurous foodies who love to experiment.

History of Double Baked Potato Skins

Potato skins have been a staple of American cuisine, often enjoyed as an appetizer or a tasty snack. Traditionally, they are made by baking potatoes, scooping out the flesh, and filling the skins with a mixture of cheese, bacon, and onions, before baking them again for a deliciously crispy finish. The concept has evolved over the years, with numerous variations to cater to different taste preferences.

In Friends, Ross famously suggests a version that includes peanut butter, adding an unexpected flavor profile to this popular dish. While it may sound odd, the combination of sweet and savory can surprise your palate in a delightful way.

Ingredients

• Potatoes - 4 large
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1 teaspoon
• Peanut butter - 1 cup
• Cheddar cheese - 1 cup, shredded
• Bacon - 4 strips, cooked and crumbled
• Green onions - 2, chopped

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them thoroughly. Pierce each potato several times with a fork, then rub them with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 1 hour, or until the skin is crisp and the flesh is tender.

Step 2: Scoop the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato attached to the skin. Reserve the scooped-out potato for another use, such as mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup of peanut butter with the remaining salt and black pepper. Stir in half of the cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions.

Step 4: Fill the Potato Skins

Spread a thin layer of the peanut butter mixture into each potato skin, then top with the remaining cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.

Step 5: Bake Again

Place the filled potatoes on a baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Use a timer to ensure they don't overcook.

Serving Suggestions

These Double Baked Potato Skins with Peanut Butter are best served hot, straight from the oven. They make a fantastic appetizer for a game day, a party snack, or even a fun side dish. You can garnish them with additional green onions or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.

Enjoy! Whether you're a Friends fanatic or just curious about this unusual but tasty combination, these potato skins are sure to be a talking point at any gathering.