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Ultimate Loaded Potato Skins

loaded potato skins - featured image

Crispy potato skins topped with gooey melted cheese, smoky bacon, and a dollop of sour cream—this indulgent appetizer is perfect for parties, game days, or cozy nights at home.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium-sized russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Scrub the russet potatoes clean and pat them dry. Pierce each potato several times with a fork.
  3. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until they’re tender when pierced with a knife.
  4. Let the potatoes cool slightly, about 10 minutes. Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
  5. Using a spoon, scoop out the flesh from each potato half, leaving a ¼-inch thick shell. Place the potato flesh in a mixing bowl.
  6. Brush the potato skins with olive oil on both sides and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them back on the baking sheet, cut side down, and bake for 10 minutes to crisp up the skins.
  7. Meanwhile, mash the potato flesh with melted butter, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
  8. Flip the potato skins cut side up and fill each with the mashed potato mixture. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
  9. Bake the loaded potato skins for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  10. Remove from the oven and garnish with sour cream and green onions. Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

Notes

For extra crispy skins, bake the potato shells a second time before adding the filling. Customize toppings with jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or BBQ sauce for a unique twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded potato skins, party appetizer, game day snack, crispy potato skins, easy appetizer recipe