Cheesy Stuffed Baked Potatoes

1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

2Wash the potatoes (4 large) thoroughly and pat them dry with a paper towel.

3Using a fork, pierce the potatoes (4 large) in several places to allow steam to escape during baking.

4Place the potatoes (4 large) directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

5While the potatoes (4 large) are baking, prepare the filling. In a skillet, sauté the diced onion (1) until translucent.

6Add the diced tomato (1) and cook for a few more minutes until the tomato (1) softens.

7Season the onion (1) and tomato (1) mixture with your choice of spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. Stir well to combine.

8Once the potatoes (4 large) are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.

9Cut a slit lengthwise across the top of each potato and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer inside the skin.

10Mash the scooped-out potato flesh in a bowl and mix it with the sautéed onion (1), tomato (1), and spice mixture.

11Stir in the shredded cheese (1 cup) until well combined.

12Stuff each potato skin with the cheesy filling, mounding it on top.

13Return the stuffed potatoes (4 large) to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

14Serve the cheesy stuffed baked potatoes (4 large) hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.