Are you looking for a flavorful and unique side dish to impress your guests at your next barbecue? Look no further than this mouthwatering recipe for grilling pimento cheese twice baked potatoes. Not only does this recipe add a twist to the classic twice baked potato, but it also incorporates the tangy and creamy flavors of pimento cheese. But here’s the twist – instead of baking the potatoes for hours, we’ll show you how to save time by microwaving them without sacrificing taste.
Key Takeaways:
- Create a delicious twist on the classic twice baked potato with pimento cheese.
- Microwaving the potatoes saves time without compromising flavor.
- The filling for the potatoes can be customized to suit your taste.
- Grill the potatoes for a smoky and crispy finish.
- Garnish with chives for an added touch of freshness.
The Benefits of Microwaving the Potatoes
Microwaving the potatoes instead of baking them in the oven offers several benefits for this grilling pimento cheese twice baked potato recipe. Not only does it significantly shorten the overall cooking time, but it also produces delicious results. Let’s explore the advantages of microwaving the potatoes:
1. Time-Saving: Microwaving the potatoes reduces the cooking time by nearly an hour compared to traditional baking methods. This means you can enjoy these delectable twice baked potatoes in less time without compromising on flavor or texture.
2. Energy Efficiency: Using a microwave requires less energy compared to heating up the entire oven. By microwaving the potatoes first, you can save on energy costs while still achieving the desired crispy texture and fluffy interior.
3. Consistent Results: Contrary to common belief, microwaved potatoes retain a similar texture and taste to oven-roasted potatoes when grilled. A comparison study revealed that both methods yield comparable results after the second baking on the grill, ensuring a satisfying eating experience.
To illustrate the benefits of microwaving, we conducted a side-by-side comparison of oven-roasted and microwaved potatoes for this recipe. Here are the results:
| Oven-Roasted Potatoes | Microwaved Potatoes | |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Time | Approximately 1 hour | Approximately 15 minutes |
| Texture | Crispy skin, fluffy interior | Softer skin, crispy when grilled |
| Taste | Tender and flavorful | Tender and flavorful |
As you can see, microwaving the potatoes not only saves time but also maintains the desired texture and taste. It’s a convenient and efficient method that enhances the cooking process for these delicious grilled pimento cheese twice baked potatoes.
Microwaving Potatoes: How-To Guide
To microwave the potatoes for this recipe, follow these simple steps:
- Scrub the potatoes to remove any dirt or debris.
- Pierce each potato with a fork or knife to create small air vents.
- Place the potatoes on a microwave-safe plate and microwave them on high for approximately 15 minutes or until they are fork-tender.
- Allow the potatoes to cool slightly before handling to avoid burns.
- Once cooled, cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and proceed with the grilling pimento cheese twice baked potato recipe.
By microwaving the potatoes, you can enjoy the benefits of reduced cooking time and still achieve the crispy, delicious results you desire. Now that you know the advantages, it’s time to discover the perfect potato filling for these grilled pimento cheese twice baked potatoes in the next section.
Creating the Perfect Potato Filling
The filling for these grilled pimento cheese twice baked potatoes can be customized to your taste. We experimented with different variations to find the perfect combination of flavors and textures. Our first attempt used only pimento cheese mixed with the potato, but it resulted in a dense and overly heavy filling. We wanted something lighter and tangier, so in our second attempt, we added sour cream to the mixture. The addition of sour cream gave the filling a tangy flavor and lightened it up, but it still lacked some richness.
For our final batch, we decided to add butter along with cheddar cheese, pimentos, and sour cream. This combination created a creamy and fluffy filling with the perfect balance of flavors. The butter added richness and enhanced the overall taste of the potatoes. The pimento cheese, cheddar cheese, and pimentos provided a savory and slightly spicy element, while the sour cream added creaminess and tang. The result was a filling that was irresistible and complemented the smoky flavor of the grilled potatoes.
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients for the perfect potato filling:
- Pimento cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Pimentos
- Sour cream
- Butter
Feel free to experiment with your own variations of the pimento cheese filling. You can try different types of cheese or add additional ingredients like bacon bits, green onions, or jalapenos to give it a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, and you can customize the filling to suit your personal preferences.
Adding butter to the potato filling is key to achieving a rich and indulgent taste. The butter melts into the mixture, creating a velvety texture and enhancing the overall flavor profile. It adds a touch of decadence that takes these grilled pimento cheese twice baked potatoes to the next level.
Grilling and Serving the Potatoes
Once you have prepared the flavorful pimento cheese filling, it’s time to take your twice baked potatoes to the next level on the grill. Begin by brushing the potato shells with a generous amount of butter and sprinkling them with your favorite seasonings. This will create a deliciously crispy and seasoned outer layer.
Next, place the prepared potato shells on a grill over indirect high heat. Allow them to cook for approximately 10 minutes, or until the skins turn a beautiful golden color and become slightly crisp. This step infuses the potatoes with a subtle smokiness that complements the tangy pimento cheese filling perfectly.
Once the potatoes are grilled to perfection, carefully remove them from the heat. Fill each potato shell with the creamy pimento cheese mixture, making sure to generously stuff them. Top each potato with additional cheese for an extra melty and gooey finish.
Return the filled potatoes to the grill and let them cook for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and wonderfully bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning the cheese. Once they are done, allow the potatoes to cool for a few minutes. This will make them easier to handle and prevent any burnt tongues.
To add a touch of freshness and color, garnish your grilled pimento cheese twice baked potatoes with finely chopped chives. Their mild onion flavor and vibrant green hue will enhance both the presentation and taste of the dish. Serve these delectable potatoes as a side dish alongside grilled meats or enjoy them as a standalone vegetarian option.