Name: Loaded Potato Skins Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 2 green onions, chopped; 1/2 cup sour cream

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loaded potato skins are the ultimate appetizer or snack, delivering a crispy, cheesy, and savory bite in every piece. Perfect for game days, parties, or even as a fun side dish, this recipe brings together the best flavors of classic comfort food. The combination of crispy potato shells, melted cheese, crunchy bacon, and fresh toppings makes them irresistibly delicious. Plus, they are easy to customize with various toppings and fillings to suit different dietary preferences.

Ingredients

Russet potatoes
Olive oil
Salt
Black pepper
Shredded cheddar cheese
Cooked bacon
Green onions
Sour cream

Directions

Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly and dry them with a paper towel.
Bake the Potatoes: Lightly coat the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place them directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet and bake for about 45-50 minutes until tender. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Scoop Out the Centers: Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch layer inside the skin to maintain structure.
Crisp the Skins: Brush the hollowed-out potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Place them back in the oven, cut-side down, and bake for 10 minutes. Flip them and bake for another 5 minutes until crispy.
Add the Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly inside each potato skin. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Top with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Omit bacon and add black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for a meat-free version.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra heat.
Loaded with Protein: Incorporate shredded chicken or ground turkey for a heartier dish.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free cheese and a plant-based sour cream alternative.
Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for a unique flavor profile.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover potato skins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Preheat the oven to 375°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for extra crispiness.
Freezing: Allow the potato skins to cool completely, then store them in a single layer in a freezer-safe container. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F for about 15-20 minutes.

FAQs

How do I make sure my potato skins are crispy?

Brushing the potato skins with oil and baking them twice—once after scooping and again with the toppings—helps achieve a perfectly crispy texture.

Can I make potato skins ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the potato skins up to the baking step, then refrigerate them. When ready to serve, add toppings and bake until heated through.

What are the best potatoes to use?

Russet potatoes work best due to their sturdy skins and fluffy interior.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook the hollowed-out potato skins in an air fryer at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes before adding toppings and heating again for 3-5 minutes.

What dipping sauces pair well with potato skins?

Ranch dressing, blue cheese dip, or spicy aioli are excellent choices.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Try using Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a blend of cheeses for variety.

How do I make them extra crispy?

For even crispier skins, broil them for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.

Are these gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all added ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes, though they will be slightly softer. Adjust baking time as needed.

How do I prevent the potato skins from becoming soggy?

Make sure to bake the skins separately before adding toppings and avoid overloading with wet ingredients.

Conclusion

Loaded potato skins are a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer that is easy to make at home. With their crispy texture, cheesy goodness, and customizable toppings, they are perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re making them for game night, a party, or just a snack, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

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