Bloomin' Baked Potato

1. 1

   Heat oven to 425 degrees F.

2. 2

   Cut 1/4-inch-thick lengthwise slice off top of potato; discard.

3. 3

   Make a vertical circular cut, about 1/4 inch from peel, around top of potato, being careful to not cut through to bottom of potato.

4. 4

   Repeat to make second concentric circle, about 1/4 inch closer to centre of potato from first circular cut.

5. 5

   Turn potato over.

6. 6

   Make vertical cut down into potato, being careful to not cut all the way through potato.

7. 7

   Repeat to make additional vertical cuts in potato, allowing about 1/4 inch between cuts.

8. 8

   Microwave on HIGH 2 min.

9. 9

   Place in foil-lined 13x9-inch pan.

10. 10

    Bake 30 min.

11. 11

    or until potato is tender.

12. 12

    Remove from oven.

13. 13

    Heat broiler.

14. 14

    Top potato with cheese.

15. 15

    Broil, 4 inches from heat, 2 to 3 min.

16. 16

    or until cheese is melted.

17. 17

    Sprinkle with bacon.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.