Description
This Crispy Loaded Potato Skins recipe transforms simple russet potatoes into a delicious appetizer topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. Served with a dollop of sour cream, these potato skins are perfect for game day, parties, or whenever you crave a satisfying, crispy snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 6 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Toppings
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 whole green onions, chopped
- 1 cup sour cream, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the russet potatoes clean and pierce each a few times with a fork to prevent bursting. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Cool and Halve Potatoes: Remove potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool enough to handle. Slice each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato on the skin to maintain structure.
- Season the Skins: Brush the inside of each potato skin with melted butter. Sprinkle with salt and garlic powder evenly.
- Bake the Skins: Place the potato skins on a baking sheet, skin side down. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes to crisp up the skins.
- Add Toppings: Flip skins over, fill with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Return to the oven for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top. Serve hot with a side of sour cream for dipping.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the potato skins for 1-2 minutes after adding the cheese and bacon, watching closely to avoid burning.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with mozzarella or your favorite cheese blend for varied flavors.
- Try adding jalapeños or salsa on top for a spicy kick.
- Leftover potato flesh can be used to make mashed potatoes or added back into the skins for a loaded potato version.
Keywords: potato skins, loaded potato skins, crispy potato skins, appetizer recipe, baked potato skins, bacon and cheese potato skins