Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C)
Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them
Pierce each potato several times with a fork
Rub the potatoes with oil and sprinkle with salt
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet
Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until tender
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly
Slice each potato in half lengthwise
Scoop out the insides into a bowl, leaving a thin shell
Mash the potato flesh with butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper
Add shredded cheese, cooked bacon, chives, or other desired mix-ins
Spoon or pipe the filling back into the potato shells
Top with extra cheese, bacon, or other toppings if desired
Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven
Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until heated through and lightly browned
Serve hot