Microwave Jacket Potato

Ingredients

• 4Potatoes$3.20
• 1 tbspOlive oil$0.23
• 1/2 tspSalt—
• 1 canBlack beans$1.20
• 4 ozCheddar cheese$2.50
• 1/2 cupSalsa$1.20
• Total for 4 servings$8.33

Most of the cost is potatoes ($3.20) and cheddar cheese ($2.50). With oil, spices and staples already at home, the shop drops to about $5.70. Prices are estimated for the amount used, at average US grocery prices (November 2026).

Steps

1. Scrub the potatoes thoroughly, dry with a towel, and prick each potato all over with a fork 6 to 8 times.
2. Rub the potato skins evenly with the olive oil and salt. Drain and rinse the black beans, and shred the cheddar cheese.
3. Arrange the potatoes in a ring on a microwave-safe plate and microwave on high for 10 to 13 minutes, flipping them once halfway through, until a fork slides easily into the centers.
4. Place the drained black beans in a small microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 1 to 2 minutes until steaming hot.
5. Slit each hot potato lengthwise and gently press the ends inward to push open the fluffy interior.
6. Divide the warm black beans evenly among the potato cavities, top each with shredded cheddar cheese, and microwave on high for 30 to 60 seconds until the cheese is completely melted.
7. Spoon 2 tablespoons of salsa over each loaded potato and serve immediately while hot.