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Crispy Loaded Potato Skins with Bacon and Cheese

crispy loaded potato skins - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy potato skins loaded with smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy mozzarella cheese, perfect for game day snacks or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium to large russet potatoes, washed and baked
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Olive oil or vegetable oil, for brushing
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Sour cream, for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes and prick them a few times with a fork.
  2. Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for 45-60 minutes until skins are firm and a knife slides easily inside.
  3. Cool the potatoes for about 10 minutes until safe to handle but still warm. Slice each potato in half lengthwise.
  4. Scoop out the flesh gently with a spoon, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato attached to the skin. Save the scooped potato for another use.
  5. Brush the potato skins lightly with olive oil on both sides, then sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place skin side down on a baking sheet.
  6. Bake the skins for 10-15 minutes to crisp them up.
  7. Remove the skins and flip them skin side up. Sprinkle evenly with chopped bacon, then top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
  8. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  9. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm with a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

Double baking the potato skins ensures crispiness without sogginess. Brush skins with oil before baking to prevent soggy bottoms. Crisp bacon thoroughly before chopping. Watch cheese closely during final bake to avoid burning. Leftovers can be reheated in a 375°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato skins, bacon, cheese, game day snacks, crispy potato skins, loaded potato skins, easy snack recipe