Loaded Potato Skins
Crispy baked potato skins topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions. These restaurant-style loaded potato skin appetizers deliver 285 calories per serving of pure comfort food.
20m
8
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Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- 1
Bake the Potatoes
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Pierce potatoes all over with a fork and bake for 45-50 minutes until tender when squeezed. Let cool for 10 minutes.
- 2
Prepare Potato Skins
Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Scoop out flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato attached to the skin. Save scooped potato for another use.
- 3
Season the Skins
Brush potato skins inside and out with melted butter and olive oil. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- 4
Crisp the Skins
Place potato skins cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip and bake 5 more minutes until crispy and golden.
- 5
Add Toppings
Fill each potato skin with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon. Return to oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- 6
Finish and Serve
Remove from oven and immediately top with sliced green onions. Serve hot with sour cream on the side for dipping.
Chef's Tips
For extra crispy skins, place under the broiler for 1-2 minutes after adding cheese. You can prepare the potato skins up to 2 days ahead and store in the refrigerator before adding toppings.
Nutrition Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about making this loaded potato skins
How long does it take to make Loaded Potato Skins?
This recipe takes 65 minutes total time, including 20 minutes prep time and 45 minutes cooking time.
How many servings does this Loaded Potato Skins recipe make?
This recipe yields 8 servings.
What is the difficulty level of this Loaded Potato Skins recipe?
This recipe is rated as Medium difficulty level, making it suitable for home cooks with some experience.
Can I make substitutions in this Loaded Potato Skins recipe?
Yes, you can make substitutions, but they may affect the final result. Common substitutions include using different types of ingredients for dietary restrictions or personal preferences.
Can I make this loaded potato skins ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare this loaded potato skins up to 1 day ahead. Assemble the dish completely, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bring to room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if needed.
How do I store leftover loaded potato skins?
Store leftover loaded potato skins covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
What side dishes go well with loaded potato skins?
This loaded potato skins pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, or crusty bread. For a complete meal, serve alongside grilled chicken or a protein of your choice.
Can I freeze loaded potato skins?
Yes, this loaded potato skins freezes well for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.