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Crispy Loaded Potato Skins with Bacon and Cheddar

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These crispy loaded potato skins with smoky bacon and melty sharp cheddar are the perfect easy appetizer or snack, ready in under 45 minutes and loved by all ages.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4–5 medium russet potatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6–8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to reach full heat.
  2. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly, then pat dry.
  3. Prick each potato a few times with a fork and place directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet.
  4. Bake potatoes for 45-55 minutes until skins are crisp and a fork inserts easily.
  5. Remove potatoes and let cool for 10 minutes.
  6. Slice each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato on the skin.
  7. Brush potato skins with melted butter and olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
  8. Place skins skin-side down on a baking sheet or wire rack and bake for 10-15 minutes until edges are crisp.
  9. Remove from oven and fill each skin with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon; sprinkle garlic powder if desired.
  10. Return to oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  11. Take out of oven, garnish with sliced green onions, and serve warm with sour cream on the side.

Notes

Double baking the potatoes ensures crispy skins. Leave a thin layer of potato flesh to maintain structure. Use room-temperature cheese for even melting. Cook bacon until just crispy to avoid dryness. If skins aren’t crispy enough after baking, broil for 1-2 minutes watching closely to prevent burning. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato skins, loaded potato skins, bacon, cheddar, appetizer, snack, crispy potato skins, easy recipe

Find it online: https://siennaspoon.com/crispy-loaded-potato-skins-with-bacon-and-cheddar-easy-recipe-for-perfect-appetizers/