Microwave Baked Potatoes

Every now and again I get on a baked potato kick. They rank up there with pizza and sandwiches for being customizable. Healthy, cheap, and fast, what's not to love?

Fast? Fast? What is she thinking? Some of you may not be familiar with the potato bag. My best friend thought I was nuts when I said I would have baked potatoes on the table in less than 10 minutes.  For a wee tiny bit of fabric and batting you can make one of these bags in just a few minutes with very basic sewing skills. Here's a tutorial HERE and HERE.

Toppings can be as varied as your imagination. Here's some ideas to get you started.

• Ham and Cheese
• Chili ( with or without cheese)
• Salsa and sour cream
• Broccoli and cheese
• Tomato sauce and parm cheese
• Bacon bits, cheese, and sour cream
• Black beans, salsa, and cheese
• Chopped chicken and cheese
• Pesto 

Yummy dinner! Excellent way to use up leftover bits from supper the night before too.
And by the way, I am sure you could whip up a few extra potato bags for gifts now couldn't you?

Taco Seasoning Mix and Potato Wedges

This seasoning mix is good for seasoning beef or chicken for almost any Mexican dish, soft tacos, burritos, quesadillas or even just sprinkled on roast veggies before cooking for some extra flavor.
My boys like this on potato wedges too that I roast for a side dish frequently.

Taco Seasoning Mix

2 Tb Chili powder
2 tb flour
2 tsp cumin
2 tsp oregano
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cayenne or chipotle pepper

Combine in a ziptop bag and shake until mixed.You can definitely leave out the cayenne if you like.

Christina's Potato Wedges

Cut 6 potatoes into wedges. Place in a zip top bag with 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. Add 1 tsp taco seasoning mix. Close bag and shake to combine. Pour onto ungreased baking sheet and roast at 400 degrees for about 40 minutes. The time varies depending on the size of your potatoes and how crispy you want them. Start checking them at 35 minutes. Serve with ketchup or ranch dressing.