6large baking potatoes(cleaned and pierced several times with a fork)
2tablespoonsolive oil
1cuptomato sauce
1tablespoonItalian seasoning
1teaspoongarlic powder
salt and pepper(to taste)
2cupsmozzarella(shredded)
4ouncespepperoni(cut into half rounds and/or chopped)
3tablespoonsfresh basil(julienned (cut into thin strips))
Instructions
Position the top oven rack in the center position and pre-heat oven to 425°F.
Place the potatoes in the pre-heated oven and bake until cooked through, approximately 50 minutes. (You can bake in the microwave if you prefer).
Remove potatoes from oven and transfer to a baking rack to cool for 10 minutes or until cool enough to handle.
While potatoes are cooling, combine the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in a medium bowl. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, and stir to combine. Set aside.
Once cool, cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the soft interior with a spoon, leaving a one-quarter inch margin around the skins. (Save the cooked potato filling for another recipe).
To prepare ahead of time, stop here then continue just before serving to keep the potato skins crispy.
Place the potato skins cut side down on a baking rack set over a baking sheet. Brush the skins with olive oil and return to the hot oven for 10 minutes.
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and flip over the skins with tongs.
Spread sauce in a thin layer with the back of a spoon on each skin
Sprinkle with cheese, pepperoni, and fresh basil.
Bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
Remove from oven and cool for a few minutes before serving.