Print

Crispy Loaded Potato Skins Recipe with Bacon and Cheddar

crispy loaded potato skins - featured image
Print Recipe

A quick and easy appetizer featuring crispy russet potato skins loaded with melty cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and a creamy sour cream filling. Perfect for game nights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 6 slices bacon
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Optional: finely chopped jalapeños, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly.
  3. Prick each potato several times with a fork. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-55 minutes until tender when pierced with a skewer.
  4. Remove baked potatoes and let cool just enough to handle. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch (6 mm) of potato attached to the skin.
  5. Brush the potato skins with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side up on a baking sheet (lined with foil if desired). Bake for 10 minutes to crisp up.
  6. While skins crisp, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool.
  7. Mix the potato flesh with sour cream, garlic powder, half the shredded cheddar, and half the green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Spoon the filling back into the crispy skins, dividing evenly. Top each with the remaining cheddar and crumbled bacon.
  9. Return to the oven for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Garnish with the remaining green onions and optional jalapeños if desired. Serve hot for maximum crispness.

Notes

For extra crispness, broil the skins for the last 1-2 minutes but watch carefully to avoid burning. Dry the skins well before oiling to ensure crispiness. You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option without noticeable difference. To make vegetarian, omit bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions. Air-frying at 375°F for 8-10 minutes is a good alternative cooking method.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato skins, loaded potato skins, bacon, cheddar, appetizer, game night snack, crispy potato skins

Find it online: https://freshforkful.com/crispy-loaded-potato-skins-recipe-with-bacon-and-cheddar-easy-and-perfect-appetizer/