Crispy Baked Potato Skins 🥔🧀
Golden, crunchy potato shells loaded with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions—perfect for game day, parties, or a tasty snack!
Ingredients *(Serves 4-6)*
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4 medium russet potatoes (scrubbed clean)
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2 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt & black pepper to taste
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack)
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4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
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2 green onions, thinly sliced
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½ cup sour cream (for dipping)
Instructions
1. Bake the Potatoes:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Pierce potatoes with a fork, rub with 1 tbsp olive oil, and bake directly on the rack for 45-55 minutes until tender. Let cool slightly.
2. Prep the Skins:
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Cut potatoes in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh (leave ¼-inch thick shell).
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Brush insides with remaining olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Crisp & Fill:
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Place skins cut-side down on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, flip, and bake 5 more minutes until crispy.
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Fill each skin with cheese and bacon. Return to oven for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts.
4. Garnish & Serve:
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Top with green onions and serve hot with sour cream for dipping.
🔥 Flavor Boosters:
✅ Spicy kick: Add pickled jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
✅ Loaded version: Swap bacon for pulled pork or drizzle with ranch dressing.
✅ Vegetarian: Use sautéed mushrooms or black beans instead of bacon.
💡 Pro Tips:
✔ Save the scooped potato flesh for mashed potatoes or soup!
✔ Extra crispy? Broil for 1-2 minutes after adding cheese.
✔ Make ahead: Bake and crisp skins, then refrigerate. Reheat and add toppings before serving.
These irresistibly crunchy potato skins disappear fast—double the batch if you’re feeding a crowd! 😋
Pair with: A cold beer or a crisp Caesar salad. 🍻