Step 1

Preheat oven to 220C/200C fan forced. Grease a large oven tray.

Step 2

Place potatoes on prepared tray and pierce the potatoes several times with a fork. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour 10 minutes or until tender (see note).

Step 3

Using a potato masher, crush potatoes. Spray with oil and bake for a further 10 minutes or until starting to brown.

Step 4

Season potatoes and top with cheese and bacon. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until cheese is golden and potato edges are crisp.

Step 5

Sprinkle with shallot and serve.