How to Make Stuffed Baked Potato with Cheese (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Stuffed Baked Potato with Cheese is a delicious and satisfying lunch option that has become popular across Malaysia, especially in urban areas influenced by global food trends. This dish takes the humble kentang (potato)—a staple ingredient in Malaysian households—and elevates it with a cheesy, savory filling. In Malaysia, you’ll find stuffed baked potatoes at cafés and modern kopitiams, often customized with local ingredients like daun bawang (spring onions) and cili merah (red chilies) for a Malaysian twist. The combination of creamy cheese, soft baked potato, and a medley of fresh vegetables creates a comforting and wholesome meal. By incorporating local flavors such as lemongrass and a dash of pandan for aroma, the Stuffed Baked Potato with Cheese becomes a true representation of Malaysia’s multicultural culinary scene. This healthy, vegetarian recipe is perfect for those seeking a hearty yet nutritious lunch, and it’s easily adaptable for various dietary needs. Whether enjoyed as a midday meal or a light dinner, this dish is a delightful way to experience the fusion of global and Malaysian flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 Large russet potatoes (kentang)
- 1/2 cup Low-fat mozzarella cheese (parut (shredded))
- 1/4 cup Red capsicum (diced)
- 1/4 cup Button mushrooms (cendawan, diced)
- 2 stalks Spring onion (daun bawang, sliced)
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt (as a healthier sour cream replacement)
- 1 stalk Lemongrass (serai, finely chopped)
- 1 Fresh red chili (cili merah, sliced)
- 1 tsp Olive oil (minyak zaitun)
- to taste Salt & pepper (garam dan lada)
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F)
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Scrub and dry the potatoes. Pierce each kentang several times with a fork.
Step 2 · Rub the potatoes with a little olive oil and sprinkle lightly with ...
Rub the potatoes with a little olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt. Place on a baking tray and bake for 40 minutes or until tender.
Step 3 · While the potatoes are baking
While the potatoes are baking, sauté diced mushrooms, capsicum, and serai in a non-stick pan with a touch of olive oil until softened.
Step 4 · Once baked
Once baked, let potatoes cool slightly. Slice each one lengthwise and gently scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer to keep the skin intact.
Step 5 · Mash the scooped potato with Greek yogurt
Mash the scooped potato with Greek yogurt, half of the cheese, sautéed vegetables, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
Step 6 · Spoon the filling back into the potato skins
Spoon the filling back into the potato skins. Top with remaining cheese and sliced cili merah.
Step 7 · Return stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes
Return stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 8 · Garnish with fresh daun bawang before serving
Garnish with fresh daun bawang before serving.
Why this recipe is healthy
Baking instead of frying and using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream significantly reduces calories and saturated fat, making this a heart-healthy, weight-conscious choice. The generous use of vegetables increases nutrient density while keeping the dish filling and satisfying. This makes it a smart option for those managing their calorie intake or looking for a balanced vegetarian meal.
A note on tradition
While stuffed baked potatoes are a modern addition to the Malaysian food scene, their popularity reflects the country's openness to global cuisine, especially in cosmopolitan regions like Kuala Lumpur and Penang. They are often served in fusion cafés and at home for casual gatherings or light meals, especially during weekends. The use of local ingredients like daun bawang and serai highlights the Malaysian approach to adapting international dishes.