Crispy Loaded Potato Skins Delight

This loaded potato skin recipe transforms humble potatoes into irresistible game day appetizers that everyone will devour. The crispy, savory skins filled with melted cheese and bacon create the perfect handheld treat that disappears within minutes at any gathering.

I first made these potato skins for a Super Bowl party years ago, and they were such a hit that they became my signature contribution to every gathering. The combination of crispy potato shells with that savory bacon and melty cheese creates an almost addictive snack that guests cannot resist.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes: Small ones create the perfect handheld size and their starchy texture makes for the crispiest skins
• Olive oil: Helps the skins crisp up beautifully in the oven and enhances browning
• Kosher salt: Essential for drawing out moisture and creating that perfect potato skin texture
• Salted butter: Creates that rich golden exterior and adds tremendous flavor
• Black pepper: Provides a gentle heat that balances the richness
• Garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth without overpowering the other flavors
• Onion powder: Contributes a subtle sweetness that enhances the potato flavor
• Smoked paprika: Brings a gentle smokiness that complements the bacon perfectly
• Sharp cheddar cheese: Use a good quality aged cheddar for the best flavor and melting properties
• Bacon: Choose thick cut for best texture and flavor after baking
• Sour cream: Provides a cool creamy contrast to the rich potato skins
• Scallions: Add a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor that brightens the dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Potatoes:

Thoroughly wash and dry your potatoes as we will be eating the skins. Pierce them all over with a fork to prevent them from exploding in the oven. The olive oil and salt coating not only adds flavor but helps create that crackly exterior we love.

Initial Bake:

Bake the whole potatoes until completely tender when pierced with a knife. Depending on size this can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes. Patience is key here as undercooked potatoes will make the next steps much more difficult.

Cool and Scoop:

Allow the potatoes to cool enough to handle them comfortably. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the centers leaving about a quarter inch of potato attached to the skin. This potato wall provides structure while still allowing room for fillings.

Season and Crisp:

Mix the melted butter with seasonings and brush generously on both sides of the potato skins. The double baking process is what transforms these from soft potato shells to crispy vessels. The first bake with the cut side down creates a sturdy base.

Add Toppings and Finish:

Fill the crispy potato shells with cheese and bacon then return to the oven just until the cheese melts into gooey perfection. The residual heat will continue cooking everything so be careful not to burn the edges.

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My favorite part of making these potato skins is watching guests try to maintain composure while clearly wanting to grab seconds immediately. The way the cheese pulls in long strands as you take that first bite brings me joy every time I serve them.

Make Ahead Options

These potato skins work beautifully as a make ahead appetizer. You can bake the potatoes and scoop them out up to two days before your event. Store the hollowed potato halves in the refrigerator then proceed with the seasoning and final baking steps just before serving. This makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to minimize last minute cooking.

Creative Variations

While the classic bacon and cheddar version is always a crowd pleaser, potato skins can be customized in countless ways. Try buffalo chicken with blue cheese, pulled pork with barbecue sauce, or go vegetarian with broccoli and cheese. Mexican inspired versions with black beans corn and jalapeños are another family favorite that puts a fresh spin on this classic appetizer.

Serving Suggestions

Potato skins make an excellent standalone appetizer but can also be paired with other finger foods for a complete spread. I like to serve them alongside a vegetable platter with ranch dip to balance the richness. For a casual dinner option pair them with a simple green salad to create a satisfying meal. The key is having plenty of napkins on hand as these delicious treats can get wonderfully messy.

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Serve these irresistible potato skins warm and watch how quickly they disappear at your next gathering!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make potato skins crispy?

Brush the potato skins with melted butter and bake until golden and crispy, flipping midway for even texture.

→ What type of cheese works best for potato skins?

Shredded sharp cheddar cheese is a great choice as it melts beautifully and adds a bold flavor.

→ Can I prepare these potato skins in advance?

Yes, you can bake the potato shells ahead, store them in the fridge, and add the filling before reheating to serve.

→ What toppings can I use besides bacon and cheddar?

Try toppings like sour cream, chives, jalapeños, or crumbled sausage for delicious variations.

→ Can I use a different type of potato?

Russet potatoes are ideal due to their sturdy skins, but medium-sized red or Yukon gold potatoes can work too.