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Loaded Potato Skins

Loaded Potato Skins
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These Loaded Potato Skins are the ultimate game night snack, combining crispy russet potato shells with melted sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh green onions. Easy to prepare and customizable, they deliver a perfect balance of crunchy and creamy textures sure to satisfy any crowd at casual get-togethers or sports watch parties.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 4 medium-sized russet baking potatoes
  • 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
  • 3 green onions, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sour cream, for topping
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Bake the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and pat dry. Pierce each potato several times with a fork. Rub them with olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake at 400°F (204°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until skins are crispy and insides are tender when pierced.
  2. Prepare the Potato Skins: Allow potatoes to cool enough to handle. Slice each potato lengthwise in half. Carefully scoop out most of the soft potato flesh, leaving about a quarter inch thick layer inside the skin to retain sturdiness. Save the scooped potato for another use.
  3. Crisp the Skins: Brush the hollowed potato skins on the inside with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place them skin-side down on a baking sheet and bake at 450°F (232°C) for 10 minutes until extra crispy and golden brown.
  4. Add Toppings and Cheese: Flip the skins over and fill each generously with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits. Return the tray to the oven and bake for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the potato skins from the oven. Top with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Choose russet potatoes for the crispiest skins and fluffiest interior.
  • Don’t over-scoop the potato flesh; leaving a thin layer avoids fragile skins.
  • Use sharp cheddar cheese for bold flavor and smooth melting.
  • Cook bacon ahead until crisp to maintain texture and avoid soggy skins.
  • Fresh garnishes such as herbs or hot sauce can elevate the final flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded potato skins, game night snacks, crispy potato skins, cheesy potato bites, bacon potato skins, easy appetizers, finger food

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