Easy Loaded Potato Skins

Looking for a classic comfort food appetizer that’s always a hit? These Loaded Potato Skins are crispy, cheesy, and packed with all your favorite toppings. Perfectly baked potato halves are filled with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and topped with a dollop of sour cream and green onions. Serve them on a platter with extra sour cream for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time!

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Why Everyone Loves Loaded Potato Skins

• Crispy and Cheesy: Golden potato shells filled with gooey cheese and bacon.
• Perfect for Sharing: A crowd-favorite appetizer or snack.
• Customizable: Swap out toppings to match your taste.

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What You’ll Need

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
• 1/2 cup sour cream (plus extra for serving)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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How to Make Loaded Potato Skins

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean, pat dry, and pierce them with a fork. Bake directly on the oven rack for 45–50 minutes, or until tender. Let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Prepare the Potato Skins

• Slice each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch shell. Reserve the scooped-out potato for another recipe (like mashed potatoes).

Step 3: Crisp the Skins

• Brush the potato shells with olive oil inside and out. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side down on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Flip and bake for another 5 minutes until crisp.

Step 4: Fill and Melt

• Turn the potato skins cut-side up. Sprinkle each with cheddar cheese and bacon bits. Return to the oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

• Remove from the oven and top each potato skin with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions. Arrange on a platter and serve with a bowl of extra sour cream in the center.

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Serving Suggestions

• Game-Day Favorite: Serve alongside other snacks like wings or nachos.
• Custom Toppings: Add diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or a drizzle of ranch dressing for a twist.
• Complete the Spread: Pair with veggie sticks and dips for a balanced appetizer platter.

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Why They’re a Must-Try

These Loaded Potato Skins are the ultimate appetizer, combining crispy, cheesy, and savory elements in every bite. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.

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Quick Reference Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits
• 1/2 cup sour cream (plus extra for serving)
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions

1. Bake Potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake potatoes for 45–50 minutes.
2. Prep Skins: Slice potatoes in half and scoop out the flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch shell.
3. Crisp Skins: Brush with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and bake cut-side down for 10 minutes. Flip and bake for another 5 minutes.
4. Fill and Melt: Top with cheese and bacon, then bake for 5–7 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
5. Serve: Garnish with sour cream and green onions. Serve with extra sour cream on the side.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 65 minutes
• Total Time: 75 minutes

Servings: 8 potato skins
Calories per Serving: 200

These potato skins are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and savory—guaranteed to be the star of any appetizer table!

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