Mini Baked Potatoes with Mascarpone and Prosciutto Bits

== Description ==
Contributed by Catsrecipes Y-Group
* Recipe courtesy Michael Chiarello 
* Show: Easy Entertaining with Michael Chiarello
* Episode: Guys Guide to Entertaining
== Ingredients ==
* 10 small Yukon Gold potatoes
* coarse salt
* 3 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon Prosciutto bits
* ½ cup + 2 tablespoons mascarpone or crème fraîche
* 2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons chopped chives
=== Prosciutto bits ===
* 4 ounces prosciutto (Have the butcher grind it or chop it finely yourself. If finely chopping yourself, partially freeze it first.)
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
== Directions ==
# Preheat the oven to 350°F.
# Wash and dry the potatoes.
# Spread a ¼-inch bed of salt in a baking dish and top with the potatoes.
# Prick the top of the potatoes.
# Bake for about 40 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked throughout.
# Meanwhile, make the prosciutto bits.
# Place a small saute pan over medium-high heat.
# Place prosciutto in heated pan.
# Drizzle bits with olive oil, and cook, stirring.
# The prosciutto will give off steam for about 5 minutes while it releases its moisture.
# When the hiss of steam turns to a sizzle, turn the heat down to medium low and cook, stirring occasionally, until the prosciutto bits are crisp, about 25 to 30 minutes.
# Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bits to several thicknesses of paper towel to drain.
# The bits will crisp even more as they cool. (Use immediately or freeze the bits for up to 6 months and warm in a skillet as needed).
# Remove the potatoes from the oven.
# Cut an x in the top of each potato, and push in the sides to split open.
# Divide the prosciutto bits, mascarpone or crème fraîche, and chives among the potatoes and serve immediately.
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Category:Cathy's Recipes
Category:Baked potato Recipes
Category:Yellow potato Recipes
Category:Mascarpone Recipes
Category:Crème fraîche Recipes
Category:Prosciutto Recipes