Loaded Potato Skins are a hearty and flavorful appetizer that turns simple potatoes into a mouthwatering treat. This dish involves hollowing out baked potato halves and filling them with a savory mix of melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, and green onions, then baking them again until they’re perfectly crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside. Often served with sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce, Loaded Potato Skins are a crowd-pleasing favorite, offering a delightful combination of textures and flavors that make them perfect for game days, casual gatherings, or as a comforting snack any time
AuthorJulia ForesekCategoryAmerican, Appetizers & StartersDifficultyBeginnerBake the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prick the potatoes with a fork, then bake them directly on the oven rack for about 50-60 minutes, or until they are tender inside.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Prepare the Potato Skins:
Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise. Scoop out the insides, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato on the skin. (Reserve the scooped potato for another use, like mashed potatoes.)
Brush both sides of the potato skins with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Place the potato halves skin-side up on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10 minutes. Flip and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the edges start to crisp.
Add Toppings:
Remove the skins from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon inside each skin.
Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Top each potato skin with a dollop of sour cream and garnish with chopped green onions or chives.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Ingredients
Directions
Bake the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prick the potatoes with a fork, then bake them directly on the oven rack for about 50-60 minutes, or until they are tender inside.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Prepare the Potato Skins:
Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise. Scoop out the insides, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato on the skin. (Reserve the scooped potato for another use, like mashed potatoes.)
Brush both sides of the potato skins with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Place the potato halves skin-side up on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10 minutes. Flip and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the edges start to crisp.
Add Toppings:
Remove the skins from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon inside each skin.
Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
Top each potato skin with a dollop of sour cream and garnish with chopped green onions or chives.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Perfect Beverage Pairing:
- Cold Beer: A light lager or pilsner complements the rich and salty flavors of the loaded potato skins, offering a refreshing balance.
- Alternative: For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime can cleanse the palate between bites, providing a crisp contrast.
