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Crispy Loaded Potato Skins with Bacon and Cheddar

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A quick and easy appetizer featuring crispy potato skins loaded with melted sharp cheddar cheese and smoky bacon, perfect for game nights and casual parties.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium russet potatoes, scrubbed and dried
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 stalks green onions, finely sliced
  • Sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Prick each potato several times with a fork to let steam escape, then place directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Bake for about 45-50 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  3. Remove potatoes from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
  4. Cut potatoes in half lengthwise. Using a spoon or melon baller, scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch (6 mm) of potato attached to the skin.
  5. Brush the potato skins with olive oil inside and out, then season with salt and black pepper.
  6. Place potato skins on a baking sheet skin side down and bake for 10 minutes. Flip them over, then bake for another 10 minutes until the edges are crisp and slightly browned.
  7. While skins bake, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  8. Fill each potato skin with shredded cheddar cheese and bacon pieces. Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese melts and bubbles.
  9. Remove from oven and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream on the side.

Notes

Dry the potato skins well after scooping to prevent sogginess. Brush with olive oil to achieve a crispy texture. Flip skins halfway through baking for even crispness. Cook bacon separately to maintain its crunch. If oven runs hot, check skins early to avoid burning. For reheating leftovers, use a 375°F oven for 10 minutes to restore crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

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

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