Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. I scrub the potatoes well, pat them dry, and brush them with olive oil. Baking them directly on a sheet makes the skins extra crispy.
Once the potatoes are baked and cooled slightly, I slice them in half and scoop out the fluffy insides, leaving a thin layer to keep the skins intact. This step is key to a creamy filling without breaking the shells.
Next, I mix the potato flesh with cream cheese, sour cream, cheddar, jalapeños, bacon, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. I always taste and adjust seasoning at this stage—it makes a huge difference.
Then I spoon the mixture back into the potato shells, piling it high. I sprinkle extra cheese on top for that golden finish. Bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until the tops are bubbly and slightly browned.
Finally, I remove the potatoes from the oven and let them rest a few minutes before serving. Garnishing with chopped green onions makes them look as good as they taste.