Loaded Baked Potato Skins
Who doesn’t love a crispy and cheesy potato skin loaded with all the good stuff? This ultimate comfort food is perfect for parties or a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Sour cream, for serving
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F.
- Scrub potatoes and pierce with a fork.
- Rub potatoes with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes until tender.
- Let potatoes cool slightly, then slice in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a 1/4 inch border.
- Increase oven temperature to 450°F.
- Place potato skins on a baking sheet, skin side down.
- Sprinkle with cheese, bacon, and green onions.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve with sour cream on the side.
Popular questions:
- Can I use a different type of cheese?Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses for variety.
- Can I make these ahead of time?You can prepare the potato skins up to the point of adding toppings, then cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?Absolutely, turkey bacon is a great alternative for a lighter option.
- Can I add other toppings?Yes, you can customize the toppings to your liking with ingredients like jalapenos, salsa, or even pulled pork.
- How can I make this vegetarian?Omit the bacon and add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian version.
- Can I freeze these potato skins?You can freeze the cooked potato skins in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the oven when ready to enjoy.
- Do I have to scoop out all the potato flesh?Leaving a bit of potato flesh helps maintain the structure of the skins, but you can adjust to your preference.
- How can I reheat leftovers?Reheat in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until warmed through for crispy skins.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead?Absolutely, sweet potatoes can be a delicious alternative with a slightly different flavor profile.
- Can I serve these as a main dish?These potato skins make a great appetizer or snack, but you can certainly enjoy them as a main dish with a side salad or veggie.
Helpful tips:
- Add a sprinkle of paprika or cayenne for a kick of heat.
- Try different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for unique flavors.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- For a crispy finish, broil the potato skins for an extra minute or two at the end.
- Experiment with different toppings like pulled pork, guacamole, or salsa for a fun twist.
- Make a larger batch and freeze the potato skins for quick and easy snacks later on.
- Serve with a side of hot sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
- For a healthier version, swap out regular sour cream for Greek yogurt.
- Use a melon baller or small spoon to easily scoop out the potato flesh.
- Get creative with toppings like cooked shrimp, BBQ chicken, or even buffalo sauce for a unique twist.
Expert Secrets:
- For an extra crispy skin, brush the insides with melted butter before baking.
- Mix crumbled blue cheese or feta into the toppings for a tangy flavor boost.
- For added richness, drizzle the potato skins with a bit of truffle oil before serving.
- To speed up baking time, you can partially cook the potatoes in the microwave before finishing in the oven.
- Use leftover chili or pulled pork as a tasty filling for the potato skins.
- Experiment with different herbs like thyme, rosemary, or dill for added flavor complexity.
- For a smoky twist, add a dash of smoked paprika to the potato skins before baking.
- Top with a dollop of pesto or sun-dried tomato tapenade for a burst of fresh flavor.
- For a festive touch, sprinkle chopped cranberries or pomegranate seeds on top before serving.
- Transform these potato skins into a Tex-Mex treat by adding taco seasoned meat and toppings like avocado and salsa.
