Loaded Baked Potato Skins are a classic appetizer that’s crispy, creamy, and full of flavor. These potato skins are hollowed out and baked until golden and crispy, then loaded with all the delicious toppings you love—cheese, crispy beef bacon, sour cream, chives, and sometimes a sprinkle of additional seasonings. They’re the perfect bite-sized treat for game days, parties, or as a satisfying snack.
The first time I made Loaded Baked Potato Skins, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. The crispy potato skins paired perfectly with the melty cheese and savory beef bacon, and the sour cream added a cool, creamy contrast. What I love most about this dish is how customizable it is—you can add extras like jalapeños for a bit of heat, or swap in different cheeses or toppings. They’re always a crowd-pleaser and make for a great starter or side dish!
Perfect for:
- Parties and gatherings
- Game day snacks
- Comfort food cravings
- Potluck dishes
- Potato lovers
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here are 10 reasons why these Loaded Baked Potato Skins will become your go-to appetizer:
- Crispy and Savory: The baked potato skins are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, delivering the perfect texture.
- Flavor-Packed: Cheese, beef bacon, and sour cream combine for a burst of rich and savory flavors.
- Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite toppings, such as jalapeños, chives, or even chili, for extra flavor.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: These loaded potato skins are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and creamy.
- Perfect for Sharing: They’re easy to make in batches, making them ideal for serving at parties or get-togethers.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prep the potato skins and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake for quick, hassle-free entertaining.
- Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love these cheesy, bacon-filled treats.
- Versatile Recipe: These can be served as a snack, side dish, or main course with a salad.
- Great for Leftovers: Leftover potato skins can easily be reheated for another round of deliciousness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Skip the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this classic appetizer.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 12 potato skins
- Calories per serving: Approximately 180-200 calories
- Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 15g, Fat: 12g
Ingredients
For the Potato Skins:
- 6 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked beef bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Toppings:
- Additional green onions
- Jalapeños, sliced
- Extra shredded cheese
- Crumbled beef bacon
Ingredient Highlights
- Russet Potatoes: Perfect for baking with a sturdy skin that crisps up nicely when baked.
- Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp and creamy flavor that melts beautifully.
- Beef Bacon: Provides a savory and smoky taste that complements the cheese and potatoes.
- Sour Cream: Offers a tangy contrast to the richness of the cheese and bacon.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and prick them with a fork. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-50 minutes, until tender.
- Cool and Slice: Once baked, allow the potatoes to cool for 10 minutes. Slice them in half lengthwise. Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato around the skin. Reserve the scooped-out potato for another use (like mashed potatoes).
- Brush with Oil: Brush the potato skins with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Bake the Potato Skins:
- Crisp the Skins: Place the potato skins on a baking sheet and bake them for an additional 10-15 minutes, until crispy and golden brown.
Prepare the Filling:
- Mix the Filling: In a bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, melted butter, garlic powder, and sour cream.
- Fill the Skins: Spoon the mixture into the crispy potato skins, distributing the filling evenly.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the filled potato skins to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve:
- Garnish and Serve: Top with fresh green onions and any optional toppings you like. Serve immediately while hot.
How to Serve
Here are 10 serving suggestions for Loaded Baked Potato Skins:
- At a Party: Serve these as a savory appetizer at your next get-together or mocktail party.
- With a Salad: Pair with a side salad for a light meal.
- As a Snack: Enjoy these loaded potato skins as a satisfying afternoon snack.
- For Game Day: Perfect for tailgating or watching the big game with friends.
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing or spicy ketchup for extra flavor.
- With Chili: Top with chili for a hearty, filling dish.
- For Movie Nights: Serve as a comforting treat while watching your favorite movies.
- With Sour Cream: Add extra sour cream on top for a creamy finish.
- With Salsa: Pair with a side of salsa for a tangy complement to the richness of the potatoes.
- For Potluck Dishes: These make an easy and crowd-pleasing dish to bring to a potluck.
Additional Tips
- Crispier Skins: For extra crispiness, broil the skins for the last few minutes of baking.
- Use the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best for this recipe because of their thick skin and fluffy interior.
- Make Them Spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or chili flakes to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Scoop Gently: Be careful when scooping out the potato flesh to avoid tearing the skin.
- Double the Recipe: If you have a large crowd, double the recipe to make even more loaded potato skins.
Recipe Variations
- Cheese and Beef Bacon Skins: Stick with the classic combo of cheese and beef bacon for a traditional taste.
- Vegetarian Skins: Skip the beef bacon and load the skins with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers for a veggie-packed version.
- BBQ Pulled Turkey Skins: Top the potato skins with pulled turkey and drizzle with barbecue sauce for a southern-inspired twist.
- Buffalo Chicken Skins: Add shredded buffalo chicken to the filling for a spicy, tangy variation.
- Vegan Skins: Use dairy-free cheese and vegan sour cream for a plant-based alternative.
Special Equipment
- Baking Sheet: For baking and crisping the potato skins.
- Spoon or Melon Baller: To scoop out the potato flesh without damaging the skin.
- Sharp Knife: For slicing the potatoes and cutting them in half.
- Silicone Brush: To brush the oil onto the potato skins evenly.
- Serving Tray: For a beautiful presentation when serving.
FAQ Section
- Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can prep the potato skins ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve. - Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for different flavors. - How do I make them extra crispy?
For crispier skins, you can broil them for a few minutes at the end of baking. - Can I freeze these potato skins?
Yes, you can freeze the baked and filled potato skins for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness. - How long do these last in the fridge?
These will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven for the best texture. - Can I make these without beef bacon?
Yes, feel free to skip the beef bacon or substitute it with a vegetarian option like tempeh beef bacon or smoked tofu. - How do I cut the potatoes in half easily?
Use a sharp knife and make a small cut along the top of the potato before slicing in half lengthwise to make it easier. - Can I use smaller potatoes?
Yes, you can use baby potatoes for bite-sized versions of this recipe. - Can I make these spicy?
Yes, you can add jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the filling for some heat. - What can I serve with these potato skins?
Serve with a side of ranch dressing, guacamole, or even a cold beer for the perfect snack.
Conclusion
Loaded Baked Potato Skins are a classic and irresistible appetizer or side dish, combining crispy potato skins with a savory filling of melted cheese, crispy beef bacon, sour cream, and green onions. The potatoes are baked until golden and crisp, then scooped out and loaded with all the delicious toppings. Whether served as a party snack, game day treat, or a fun side dish to complement a meal, these potato skins are always a crowd-pleaser.
You can customize the toppings to your liking—add a dollop of guacamole, a sprinkle of chili flakes, or some shredded cheddar for extra cheesy goodness. You can even swap out the beef bacon for a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies. The versatility of these loaded potato skins means there’s a version for everyone to enjoy.
I can’t wait to see how your Loaded Baked Potato Skins turn out! Be sure to share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to see your delicious creations. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know how you made this dish your own!