Loaded Potato Skins are a perfect mix of crispy, cheesy, and hearty all in one bite! These little potato boats are packed with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, all scooped inside golden potato skins. They’re the kind of snack that makes everyone smile and feels like a little tasty treat any time of day.
I love making these when friends come over because they’re super easy to share and always disappear fast. I usually start by baking the potatoes until they’re perfectly tender, then crisping up the skins in the oven before piling on the toppings. It’s fun to customize toppings too—sometimes I add sour cream or even a little chili for a spicy kick. The best part is how the cheese melts over the bacon, creating that delicious gooey texture that keeps you going back for more.
When I serve loaded potato skins, I like to set them out on a big platter for everyone to grab and enjoy with a cold drink. They’re great as an appetizer or even a casual snack for game nights and gatherings. Honestly, it’s hard to resist these—every time I make them, they bring back fun memories of cozy get-togethers and good laughs with friends and family.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are the best for potato skins thanks to their thick skin and fluffy insides. If you can’t find russets, Idaho potatoes work well too.
Bacon: Try turkey bacon for a leaner option or vegetarian bacon for a plant-based twist. Crispy bacon adds great flavor and crunch.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice tangy flavor. You can swap for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend if you prefer a milder taste.
Sour Cream: This cool, creamy topping balances the savory ingredients. Use Greek yogurt for a healthier alternative or dairy-free sour cream if needed.
Green Onions & Tomatoes: They add freshness and color. If you don’t have green onions, try chives or mild red onions. Diced bell peppers make a great tomato substitute.
How Can I Get Perfectly Crispy Potato Skins?
Getting the skins crispy is key! Here’s how I do it:
- After baking the potatoes, scoop out the flesh but leave a thin layer to keep the skins sturdy.
- Brush both sides of the skins with oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
- Bake skin side down at 400°F for 10 minutes to make them crisp before adding toppings.
- After adding cheese and bacon, bake again until the cheese melts and bubbles up.
Take your time with each step to avoid soggy skins. This method makes the outside nicely crispy while still soft inside—just the way I like it!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven – For baking the potatoes and crisping the skins, a standard oven works best.
- Fork – To pierce the potatoes before baking for even cooking.
- Skillet – To cook and crumble the bacon until crispy.
- Baking sheet – To bake the potato skins once they’re prepared and toppings added.
- Kitchen spoon or melon baller – To carefully scoop out the potato flesh without tearing the skins.
- Brush or spray bottle – To lightly coat the skins with oil for crisping.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Cheese options: Use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend instead of cheddar for different flavors.
- Proteins: Add cooked ground beef, shredded chicken, or even chili or beans for a hearty twist.
- Veggies: Top with sautéed bell peppers, jalapeños, or corn for extra color and flavor.
- Spice it up: Mix in taco seasoning or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
Loaded Potato Skins Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking oil spray or 1 tablespoon olive oil
Time You’ll Need:
This recipe takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes total, including 45 to 60 minutes to bake the potatoes, 20 minutes of prep and cooking bacon, plus about 20 minutes to assemble and bake the potato skins with toppings until crispy and melted.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash each potato well and poke holes in them with a fork a few times. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until they’re tender inside when pierced with a fork.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While the potatoes bake, cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until they’re nice and crispy. Remove bacon and place it on paper towels to drain and cool. Once cooled, crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the Potato Skins:
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut each one in half lengthwise. Use a spoon or melon baller to scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving about a 1/4 inch thick layer attached to the skin. Save the scooped-out potato for another use if you like.
4. Crisp the Skins:
Lightly brush or spray both sides of each potato skin with cooking oil. Place them skin side down on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes until crispy and golden.
5. Add Seasonings and Toppings:
Take the skins out of the oven and sprinkle them evenly with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Then, top each skin generously with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Add Fresh Toppings and Serve:
Remove the loaded skins from the oven. Top each with a dollop of sour cream, a spoonful of diced tomatoes, and sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve warm and enjoy these crispy, cheesy, and savory bites!
Can I Use Sweet Potatoes Instead of Russet Potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist! Just bake them the same way, but keep in mind that their texture is a bit softer, so handle the skins gently when scooping out the flesh.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Skins?
Place leftovers in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to keep the skins crispy.
Can I Make Loaded Potato Skins Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potato skins and toppings separately. Bake the skins and store them, then add toppings and reheat just before serving to keep them fresh and crispy.
What Are Some Good Topping Alternatives?
Feel free to mix it up with cooked ground beef, sautéed mushrooms, or black beans. You can also swap sour cream for Greek yogurt or add jalapeños for a spicy kick!