Busy moms know how important it is to whip up quick meals that everyone in the family loves. Loaded Potato Skins are a perfect choice. These snacks or side dishes combine crispy potato with melty cheese and bacon goodness. They are simple to make, and your kids will love helping you create them. Get ready for a comforting, delicious treat that’s sure to become a family favorite!
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Loaded Potato Skins recipe shines in its simplicity. The ingredients are everyday staples, which makes shopping easier. The minimal prep time means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying meals with your loved ones.
Your kids will enjoy munching on these tasty potato skins. They are also versatile; serve them as a family snack while watching a movie or as a side dish during a dinner gathering. Plus, recipes like these encourage your little ones to help out in the kitchen, turning cooking into a fun family activity!
How to Make Loaded Potato Skins
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pierce the potatoes with a fork, rub with olive oil, and season with salt.
- Bake the potatoes for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
- Once cool, slice the potatoes in half and scoop out a portion of the flesh, leaving a thin layer.
- Brush the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Fill each potato skin with cheese and bacon.
- Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and top with sour cream and sliced green onions before serving.
Loaded Potato Skins
Crispy potato skins loaded with melty cheese and crumbled bacon, perfect as a snack or side dish that kids will love.
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pierce the potatoes with a fork, rub with olive oil, and season with salt.
- Bake the potatoes for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
- Once cool, slice the potatoes in half and scoop out a portion of the flesh, leaving a thin layer.
- Brush the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Fill each potato skin with cheese and bacon.
- Return to the oven and bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly, about 10-15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and top with sour cream and sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
Customize toppings based on your family’s preferences or dietary needs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian (optional, without bacon)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skin
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
How to Serve
Serve these Loaded Potato Skins as an appetizer before dinner or as a main dish with a side salad. You can customize the toppings based on what your family enjoys. Think about adding diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of ranch seasoning for an extra kick.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the skin may lose its crispness.
Tips and Variations
Feel free to get creative! You can swap out the cheddar cheese for your favorite variety, like pepper jack for an extra spicy kick. Add other toppings like guacamole or chili for a different twist. For a vegetarian version, simply skip the bacon and add more veggies, like bell peppers or mushrooms.
If you want to speed things up, consider using leftover baked potatoes or pre-cooked bacon. The options are endless, and you can always make this recipe fit your family’s preferences.
FAQs
Can I freeze Loaded Potato Skins?
Yes, you can freeze them! Wrap cooled potato skins in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Can I make these potato skins ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the potato skins in advance, top them with cheese and bacon, and bake them right before serving. Just keep them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.
What can I serve with Loaded Potato Skins?
Pair them with a fresh salad or some grilled vegetables to balance out the meal. They can also work great alongside burgers or sandwiches for a more casual dinner.
Conclusion
Loaded Potato Skins offer an easy, delicious way to bring the family together. With minimal prep and a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that everyone will love. Try this recipe today and make it a staple in your household. Don’t forget to save it for later so you can enjoy it again soon!
