Crispy Baked Potato Skins: A Perfect Appetizer for Every Occasion

Ingredients

  • 6 medium russet potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons of olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
  • 8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup of sour cream
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius).
  2. Wash the potatoes thoroughly, then prick several times with a fork.
  3. Place the potatoes in the oven and bake for about 60 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork.
  4. While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a pan until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
  5. Once the potatoes are cooked, cut them in half lengthwise.
  6. Scoop out the insides of the potatoes, leaving a small layer of potato in the skins.
  7. Brush both sides of the potatoes with the olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
  8. Place the potato halves skin-side up onto a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
  9. Flip the potato halves over and bake for another 10 minutes, or until crisp.
  10. Remove the potatoes from the oven, then sprinkle with the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
  11. Return the potatoes to the oven and bake until the cheese has melted, about 2-3 minutes.
  12. Remove the potato skins from the oven, top with sour cream and sliced green onions, and serve.

Tools for making

  • Baking sheet - Used to place the potato skins in the oven.
  • Fork - Used to prick the potatoes before baking.
  • Pan - Used to cook the bacon until crispy.
  • Knife - Used to cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides.
  • Brush - Used to brush the olive oil onto the potato skins.

Recipe variations

  • Swap the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
  • Add diced jalapenos or other spicy peppers for a spicy kick.
  • Include cooked ground beef or sausage as an additional topping.
  • Try using sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a different flavor.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions.
  • Experiment with different herbs and spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or dried herbs like rosemary.
  • Top the potato skins with salsa, guacamole, or diced tomatoes for a fresh twist.
  • Instead of sour cream, serve with Greek yogurt or a flavored dipping sauce.
  • Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture.
  • For a healthier option, bake the potato skins instead of frying them.

Recipe overview

Indulge in a classic appetizer favorite with our recipe for Baked Potato Skins. This dish features crispy potato halves filled with melted cheddar cheese and savory crumbled bacon, topped off with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh green onions. The recipe provides step-by-step instructions for preparing and baking the potatoes, scooping out the centers, seasoning and crisping the skins, and then loading them up with those delicious toppings. It's the perfect addition to any game day spread, family gathering, or even as a hearty snack. With our straightforward guide, you'll have perfect potato skins on your plate in no time.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to bake the potatoes? - The potatoes need to bake in the oven for about 60 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork.
  2. How do I cook the bacon for this recipe? - Cook the bacon in a pan until crispy, then crumble it and set it aside.
  3. How should I season the potatoes? - Brush both sides of the potato halves with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper.
  4. How long should I bake the potatoes after adding the cheese and bacon? - Return the potatoes to the oven and bake until the cheese has melted, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. What toppings can I add to the potato skins? - You can top the potato skins with sour cream and sliced green onions.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Baking Sheet - Used for baking the potato skins in the oven.
  • Fork - Used to prick the potatoes before baking them.
  • Pan - Used for cooking the bacon until crispy.
  • Knife - Used for cutting the potatoes in half and scooping out the insides.
  • Brush - Used for brushing the olive oil onto the potato skins.

Origin stories

Potato skins are a common appetizer in the United States and they became particularly popularized nationwide in the 1970s when the T.G.I. Friday's restaurant chain added them to their menu. The dish was invented to minimize waste—using the skins that would otherwise be discarded when making mashed potatoes or French fries. Today, these hearty little boats of crispy skin and fluffy potato topped with cheese, bacon, and sour cream are a beloved part of classic American pub fare. Interestingly, T.G.I. Friday's still holds a trademark on the term "Potato Skins." Now that's making the most out of the humble potato!

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.