Loaded Potato Skins

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Loaded potato skins are a popular appetizer or snack made by hollowing out baked potato halves, crisping them up, and filling them with a savory mix of melted cheese, crispy bacon, green onions, and sour cream. They're the perfect combo of crispy, cheesy, creamy, and salty — great for parties, game day, or a hearty snack.



🛒 Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Salt & pepper to taste

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

  • ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon (or turkey bacon)

  • ¼ cup sour cream

  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (or chives)

  • Optional toppings: jalapeños, ranch, salsa, guacamole

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Bake the Potatoes

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

  • Scrub the potatoes clean and poke a few holes with a fork.

  • Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

  • Place directly on oven rack or baking sheet and bake for 45–50 minutes until tender.

2. Prepare the Skins

  • Let baked potatoes cool for 5–10 minutes.

  • Slice each potato in half lengthwise.

  • Carefully scoop out most of the inside, leaving about ¼ inch of potato attached to the skin (save the insides for mashed potatoes!).

3. Crisp the Skins

  • Brush the hollowed-out potato skins (inside and out) with olive oil.

  • Place on a baking sheet, skin side up.

  • Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes, then flip and bake 10 more minutes until crispy.

4. Load Them Up

  • Fill each skin with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.

  • Return to oven and broil on high for 2–3 minutes until cheese melts and bubbles.

5. Garnish and Serve

  • Top each with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions.

  • Serve hot with extra toppings on the side.

💡 Pro Tips

  • Cheese options: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a twist.

  • Crispier skins: After baking, brush with butter instead of oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.

  • Make it ahead: Prep and bake the skins earlier, then reheat and load just before serving.

🌱 Healthy Swaps

  • Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.

  • Try turkey bacon or omit bacon for a vegetarian version.

  • Use sweet potatoes for extra fiber and vitamin A.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Game Day Parties

  • Potlucks & BBQs

  • Movie Nights

  • Kids’ Snacks

Would you like a printable recipe card, a YouTube script version, or a nutrition breakdown?

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