Loaded potato skins are the ultimate appetizer—crispy, golden potato shells filled with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a dollop of sour cream, all topped with a sprinkle of fresh chives.
Whether you’re hosting a game day party or simply craving a comforting snack, these loaded potato skins deliver big on flavor and satisfaction. They’re indulgent yet easy to whip up, making them perfect for any gathering or casual weeknight treat.
The real magic is in the balance of textures: the crunch of the potato shell, the creamy melted cheese, and the salty, savory bacon bits. For a complete meal, serve these alongside a refreshing coleslaw for a crisp, tangy contrast. And don’t forget to sip on some icy-cold iced tea to round out the flavors with a refreshing finish. Whether it’s a family movie night or a backyard barbecue, loaded potato skins are guaranteed to be a hit.
What Makes This Recipe Special?
- Versatile and easy: These potato skins are simple to make and perfect for any occasion.
- Irresistible combination: Crispy potatoes, gooey cheese, and savory bacon—what’s not to love?
- Crowd-pleaser: Everyone loves these as a party snack or appetizer.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, green onions, or even pulled pork!
Baked Potato Skins Recipe
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Fork
- Spoon
- Microwave Safe Bowl
- Basting Brush
- Sharp Knife
- Mixing whisk or fork
Ingredients
For the Potatoes:
- 6 small to medium Russet potatoes
- 1 ½ tablespoons canola oil or olive oil
- Sea salt to taste
For the Filling:
- 3 tablespoons butter melted
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 slices bacon crispy-cooked and chopped
- 1 green onion finely sliced
- Sour cream optional, for serving
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Scrub, rinse, and dry the potatoes. Poke each potato 8–10 times with a fork to allow steam to escape while baking.
- Rub each potato with canola or olive oil and sprinkle generously with sea salt.
- Place potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until tender. Let cool until safe to handle.
Hollow the Potatoes:
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a ¼ to ½-inch layer of potato inside the skin.
Crisp the Skins:
- Melt the butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Whisk in garlic powder and onion powder.
- Brush both the tops and bottoms of the potato skins with the butter mixture.
- Place skins on the baking sheet, cut side up. Bake for 10 minutes, flip them over, and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
Add Toppings & Melt:
- Evenly distribute the shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack cheese, and chopped bacon onto the potato skins.
- Return to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted.
Garnish & Serve:
- Top each potato skin with sliced green onions and a dollop of sour cream (if desired). Serve promptly and enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 330 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 39g |
| Sodium | 175 mg |
| Fat | 6 g |
| Protein | 9 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
Loaded Potato Skins Tips:
- Perfectly Baked Potatoes: For even cooking, choose potatoes of similar size. Baking at 375°F ensures they’re cooked through without drying out.
- Scooping the Potatoes: Use a small spoon to gently scoop out the potato flesh. Save the scooped-out potato for mashed potatoes or soup later!
- Crisping the Skins: Brushing the skins with a seasoned butter mixture and baking at a higher temperature makes them crispy and flavorful. Flip halfway for even crispiness.
- Cheese Melt: For a gooey cheese layer, shred your own cheddar and Monterey Jack. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents.
- Bacon Tips: Cook bacon until it’s crispy but not overly brittle. It adds a satisfying crunch to the creamy and cheesy filling.
- Optional Additions: Enhance the filling with jalapeños for heat or diced tomatoes for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra indulgence. These pair wonderfully with a fresh salad or as a party appetizer.
These loaded potato skins are a crowd-pleaser with their crispy edges, cheesy filling, and savory bacon bits. Perfect for game days, parties, or as a comforting snack!
