Follow these step-by-step instructions to create perfectly baked cheese-stuffed potatoes:

Preparing the Potatoes

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and Dry the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Prick the Potatoes: Use a fork to pierce each potato several times. This will allow steam to escape during baking.
4. Oil and Season the Potatoes: Brush the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt. This will help create a crispy skin.

Baking the Potatoes

5. Bake the Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for approximately 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
6. Cool the Potatoes: Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly for about 10 minutes.

Preparing the Filling

7. Cut and Scoop: Carefully cut each potato in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out the interior, leaving a thin layer of potato attached to the skin. Place the scooped potato flesh in a large mixing bowl.
8. Mash the Potato Flesh: Add the butter, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the potato flesh. Mash until smooth and creamy.
9. Add Cheese and Mix-ins: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and bacon (if using) into the mashed potatoes until well combined.

Stuffing and Baking

10. Stuff the Potato Skins: Spoon the cheesy potato mixture back into each potato shell, mounding it slightly.
11. Top with Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over each stuffed potato.
12. Bake Again: Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.