Cheddar & Bacon Potato Skins

If you’re seeking the ultimate appetizer that tantalizes your taste buds with a delightful combination of flavors and textures, look no further than these Cheddar & Bacon Potato Skins. Crispy on the outside, with a soft and succulent interior, these potato skins are elevated to greatness with melted cheddar cheese and crispy bacon that add both richness and savory smokiness.

Starting with russet potatoes, the hero ingredient, the recipe takes a delicious turn as they’re baked to golden perfection. The secret to achieving that perfect crispiness lies in a two-step baking process. The potatoes are first baked until just tender, then scooped to create a potato canoe, leaving a thin layer of potato to maintain that satisfying bite. The potato skins go through a second bake until they achieve that irresistible crispy texture.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices crispy cooked bacon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
• 1/2 cup sour cream (for serving)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and scrub the russet potatoes, then pat them dry.
3. Rub the potatoes with oil and sprinkle salt on the skins.
4. Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for about 45-50 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender.
5. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
6. Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a thin layer of potato attached to the skin.
7. Place the potato skins on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10 minutes to crisp them up.
8. Remove from the oven and divide the shredded cheddar cheese among the skins.
9. Return to the oven and bake for about 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Remove from the oven and top each skin with crumbled bacon and chopped chives.
11. Serve the potato skins hot with dollops of sour cream.

Prep time: 20 minutes | Cook time: 1 hour | Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Yield: 8 servings

These Cheddar & Bacon Potato Skins are the epitome of indulgence, boasting crispy skins filled with melted cheddar and topped with bacon and chives.

Nutrition: Calories: 240 | Fat: 12g | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 10g

If you’re looking to impress your guests at your next gathering, these Cheddar & Bacon Potato Skins are a must-try. They bring together the beloved flavors of cheese and bacon in a playful and satisfying way. Whether you’re enjoying them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a delightful snack, these potato skins are guaranteed to disappear within minutes. The contrast between the crispy texture of the skins and the gooey melted cheddar cheese creates a sensory experience that’s hard to resist. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor every bite of these delectable potato skins that are sure to steal the spotlight at any event!