Potato skins are a classic comfort food, perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, they are loaded with savory cheese, crispy bacon, and a dollop of tangy sour cream. This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it ideal for a quick and satisfying treat. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving more!
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes thoroughly, pat them dry, and poke a few holes in them with a fork.
Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for about 45 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble into small pieces.
Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato inside the skin. Save the scooped-out potato for another use, like mashed potatoes.
Brush the potato skins with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Place them back in the oven, cut side down, for 5 minutes to crisp up.
Flip the skins over and sprinkle the insides with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Return to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before topping each skin with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced green onions.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious potato skins!
For extra crispy skins, after the initial baking, brush the potato skins with melted butter instead of olive oil before crisping them in the oven. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a unique twist. Add a kick of flavor by sprinkling some paprika or chili powder on the skins before baking. If you prefer a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions instead.