If you’re looking for the perfect comfort food or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, Loaded Potato Skins are a must-try! 🥔🧀 These crispy, cheesy, and bacon-topped potato skins are filled with all your favorite flavors, making them irresistible. I love to make these for parties, game days, or just a fun family night. Everyone goes crazy for these bite-sized snacks!

There’s something about the combination of crispy potato skins, melted cheese, sour cream, and bacon that makes these the ultimate indulgence. And, you can customize them to your liking—add some jalapeños for heat, or load them up with more cheese for an extra cheesy kick!

Why You’ll Love Loaded Potato Skins

They’re crispy, cheesy, and so satisfying! These potato skins are packed with flavor, and the best part? You can customize them with whatever toppings you love! Whether you’re serving them as a snack or a side dish, they’ll be the star of the show.

What You’ll Need to Make Loaded Potato Skins

4 large russet potatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons green onions, chopped
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)

How to Make Loaded Potato Skins

Bake the potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rub the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the potatoes are tender. Let them cool slightly before handling.
Scoop out the flesh: Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer of potato on the skin. You can save the scooped-out potato for mashed potatoes or other recipes!
Bake the skins: Brush the potato skins with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place them back in the oven for 10-15 minutes, until the skins are golden and crispy.
Stuff the skins: Once the skins are crispy, fill each one with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Return to the oven and bake for another 5-7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Top and serve: Remove the potato skins from the oven and top with a dollop of sour cream, green onions, and additional bacon or cheese if desired. Serve hot!

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Fun Variations

Want to switch it up? Add some guacamole and salsa for a Mexican twist, or top the skins with chili for a hearty option. You can even make them vegetarian by adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions instead of bacon. The possibilities are endless!

Perfect Pairings

These Loaded Potato Skins are perfect for serving as an appetizer or snack at parties, game nights, or even as a side dish with your favorite main course. Pair them with a crisp salad or a juicy burger for the ultimate comfort food meal.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the potatoes and scoop out the flesh ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, just stuff the skins and bake until crispy and cheese is melted.
Can I use a different cheese?
Of course! You can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a different flavor. Experiment and find your perfect combo!
Can I make these vegetarian?
Yes, you can leave out the bacon and top the potato skins with extra cheese, veggies, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Can I freeze these potato skins?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed potato skins before baking. Arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then store in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat, bake them from frozen at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.
How can I make these spicier?
Add some sliced jalapeños on top before baking, or mix some hot sauce into the sour cream for an extra spicy kick!

These Loaded Potato Skins are cheesy, crispy, and packed with all the flavors you love. They’re sure to be a hit at your next party or family gathering! Enjoy!