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Crispy Loaded Potato Skins

Crispy Loaded Potato Skins
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Crispy Loaded Potato Skins are a perfect party snack featuring golden, crunchy potato skins baked to perfection and loaded with melty cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and topped with cool sour cream and fresh green onions. This easy-to-make, customizable recipe offers the ideal combination of textures and rich flavors that will delight any crowd and satisfy comfort food cravings.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 4 large Russet potatoes

Fillings & Toppings

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 green onions, sliced

For Crisping & Seasoning

  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bake the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the Russet potatoes thoroughly, then prick them a few times with a fork. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
  2. Prepare the Skins: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin border to keep the skins intact.
  3. Crisp the Skins: Brush the emptied potato skins with melted butter and season with salt and pepper. Arrange the skins skin side up on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes until crispy and golden.
  4. Add Fillings: Fill each crispy skin with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cooked bacon. Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Top the loaded potato skins with dollops of sour cream and sprinkle with sliced green onions. Serve immediately for the best crispy and melty experience.

Notes

  • Use starchy Russet potatoes for the best crispy texture.
  • Pat potatoes dry before baking to help skins crisp up.
  • Leave a thin layer of potato flesh to keep skins from collapsing.
  • Cook bacon until crispy to avoid soggy toppings.
  • Serve potato skins warm for optimal flavor and texture.
  • Alternate cheeses like mozzarella, pepper jack, or vegan cheese can be used for variation.
  • Protein swaps include sausage, shredded chicken, or vegetarian bacon bits.
  • Extra veggies such as diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or bell peppers add crunch and flavor layers.
  • Try different dips like guacamole, ranch, or spicy aioli instead of sour cream.
  • Add fresh herbs like cilantro, chives, or parsley to toppings for freshness.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato skins, loaded potato skins, crispy potato skins, appetizer, party snack, baked potato skins, cheesy potato skins, bacon potato skins, finger food, gluten free snack

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/crispy-loaded-potato-skins/