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A delicious close-up showcases crispy and loaded Potato Skins, perfect for snacking or as an appetizer.

Ultimate Easy Potato Skins

These ultimate potato skins are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. The secret lies in baking the potatoes correctly, brushing them with olive oil, and using high heat to achieve a perfect crispy texture. Top with your favorite toppings for a delicious appetizer or snack.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 400
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup chopped green onions

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Large bowl
  • Fork
  • Oven
  • Knife
  • Spoon

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pierce each potato several times with a fork.
  3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
  4. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 60-75 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork.
  5. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly until you can handle them.
  6. Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
  7. Carefully scoop out the potato flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato attached to the skin. Reserve the scooped-out potato for another use.
  8. Increase the oven temperature to 450°F (232°C).
  9. Brush the inside and outside of each potato skin with olive oil. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  10. Place the potato skins on the baking sheet, skin-side down, and bake for 5-7 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
  11. Flip the potato skins over and bake for another 3-5 minutes.
  12. Remove the potato skins from the oven and sprinkle each one with cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
  13. Return the potato skins to the oven and bake for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  14. Top with sour cream and green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For extra crispy skins, consider broiling for the last minute, but watch carefully to prevent burning. The scooped-out potato can be used for mashed potatoes, potato casserole, or scalloped potatoes. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses and toppings.