Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Preheat oven to 400°F. Scrub the baking potatoes under cold running water and pat dry, then prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape.

Arrange the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45 minutes until tender when pierced with a knife.

Remove potatoes from oven and let cool until safe to handle. Slice each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a thin shell about ¼ inch thick.

Add the softened cream cheese, milk, salt, and butter to the mashed potatoes, then blend until creamy and well combined.

Spoon the mixture evenly into the reserved potato shells, mounding slightly. Dust the top of each filled potato with paprika for color.

Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for 10 minutes until heated through.

Remove from oven and serve immediately while hot.