Boil the potatoes for about 45 minutes, until fork tender. (You can do this ahead of time. I did it a couple days before the party and then kept the potatoes in a large tupperware in the fridge.)
Allow potatoes to cool in the water (so they won't dry out).
Spread the potatoes on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper (or greased), with room inbetween for them to spread when you smash. I suggest using a cookie sheet with sides (or the bottom of your broiling pan) so the cheesy goodness doesn't ooze onto the bottom of your oven.
Smash each potato (a potato masher works best, but you could also use a tenderizer, glass, or even your fist).
Top each potato with a small pat of butter, a sprinkling of crumbled bacon and a smattering of shredded cheese.
Bake at 375 degrees for about 15 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Indulge!
Notes
Calories are automatically generated. For best results calculate based on your exact ingredients.