Description
Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor, these Game Day Potato Skins are the ultimate snack for any gathering. Packed with sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and a dollop of sour cream, they bring comfort food to a whole new level.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 large russet potatoes
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- Sour cream, for serving
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 jalapeño pepper, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry. Pierce each potato several times with a fork. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for about 60 minutes, or until the skins are crisp and the insides are tender.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly until they can be handled. Slice each potato in half lengthwise.
- Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the insides of each potato half, leaving about a ¼-inch thick shell. Reserve the scooped-out potato flesh for another use, such as mashed potatoes.
- Brush the potato skins, inside and out, with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place the potato skins on a baking sheet, skin side up. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes. Flip them over and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until they are crisp and golden brown.
- Remove the skins from the oven and sprinkle the insides evenly with the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Return the potato skins to the oven and bake for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and top each potato skin with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped chives, and a few jalapeño slices, if using. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Extra Crispy Skins: For even crispier results, broil the potato skins for 2-3 minutes before adding the toppings.
- Make-Ahead: Bake the potatoes in advance and store them in the fridge. Crisp them up and add toppings right before serving.
- Dipping Ideas: Serve with ranch dressing or spicy aioli for an extra flavor boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Snacks, Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American