Crispy Baked Potato Skins

Crispy baked potato skins are a snack that never goes out of style. With their crunchy edges, melted cheese, and savory toppings like bacon or green onions, they’re a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Whether you’re hosting game day or just craving something indulgent yet easy to make, these skins hit the spot every time.

Do you love potato skins? Do you hate the idea of deep frying foods at home? I am trying very hard not to fry anything, but sometimes you start craving some of your favorite foods that just so happen to be deep fried. What’s a girl to do?

Ummm, get creative! Let’s start by acknowledging the fact that potato skins are not health food! Okay, now that we have that out of the way, these Baked Potato Skins have to be healthier than deep fried…right?

Ingredients

• Russet Potatoes: The ultimate choice for baked potato skins. Their thick skins crisp up beautifully, while the fluffy interior is perfect for scooping out and saving for other recipes or leaving a thin layer for extra texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: Whether you go sharp or mild, cheddar melts into a rich, gooey topping that complements the crispy potato base.
• Bacon: Cooked crispy and crumbled, bacon adds smoky, savory notes that make potato skins irresistible. You can use store-bought bacon bits if you’re short on time, but they may lack that fresh-cooked crunch.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions bring a fresh hint of sharpness with their mild onion flavor, contrasting perfectly with the richness of the cheese and bacon.
• Bacon Grease or Oil: Essential for ensuring that golden, crispy finish on your potato skins. Bacon grease adds a smoky kick, while olive oil works great for a lighter option.

Check out the printable recipe card below for the complete recipe and detailed instructions.

Optional Add-Ins and Substitutions

Want to get adventurous with your toppings? These add-ons allow you to customize baked potato skins for any occasion.

• Alternative Cheeses: Swap out cheddar for Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even smoked gouda for a unique flavor twist.
• Pulled Pork or Shredded Chicken: Transform your potato skins into a heartier dish by swapping bacon for shredded BBQ pork or rotisserie chicken.
• Vegetarian Options: Skip the bacon and load up on toppings like black beans, roasted red peppers, or sautéed mushrooms for a plant-based spin.
• Spice Things Up: Add a sprinkle of jalapeños, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper on top for a spicy kick.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: Add a dollop after baking for extra creaminess and a tangy finish.
• Herbs and Spices: Sprinkle fresh parsley, cilantro, or smoked paprika for color and depth of flavor.

How to make Crispy Baked Potato Skins

Preparing the Potatoes

• Pick the Right Potato: Opt for Russet potatoes. Their sturdy skins and fluffy interiors make them the ideal choice for this dish. Pick large ones for more topping space.
• Clean and Pierce: Scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove dirt, and don’t skip piercing them with a fork. This prevents steam buildup, which could cause the potatoes to burst in the oven.
• Bake Until Tender: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or a baking tray. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until they’re tender when poked with a fork.
• Cool and Scoop: Once out of the oven, let the potatoes cool slightly. Cut them lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch behind. This creates a sturdy shell that crisps up beautifully without tearing or collapsing.

• Brush with Bacon Grease or Oil: Melt bacon grease or use olive oil to brush both sides of the potato shells. This layer not only adds flavor but ensures they crisp up in the oven.
• Add Seasoning: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Garlic powder, smoked paprika, or onion powder can elevate the flavor.
• Bake Again: Place the shells cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 8-10 minutes, then flip them over and bake for another 5-7 minutes. This double-baking process is the key to crispy edges and a golden finish.

Reheating Potato Skins

Oven Method

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the potato skins on a baking sheet. For extra crispiness, line the sheet with a baking rack to allow air to circulate underneath the skins.
• Heat for 10-15 minutes, depending on how thick your potato skins are. Keep an eye on them so the cheese melts without overcooking.
• For an even crispier finish, switch to the broil setting for the last 1-2 minutes.

Air Fryer Method

• Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the potato skins in a single layer in the basket to avoid overcrowding—it allows air to flow freely for better crisping.
• Heat for 5-8 minutes, checking halfway through. The air fryer is a game-changer for reviving crispy edges in record time.

Avoid using a microwave to reheat potato skins. While it’s tempting for its speed, it often leaves the skins soggy rather than crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Potato skins are never complete without a good dip. The combination of crispy skins, melted cheese, and creamy dips is unbeatable.

• Sour Cream: A classic pairing that adds tangy creaminess. You can also mix it with chopped chives or parsley for added freshness.
• Ranch Dressing: Perfect if you prefer a richer, herby flavor.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: For fans of bold, tangy flavors, this works particularly well with bacon and cheddar.
• Spicy Sriracha Mayo: Want to spice things up? Blend mayo with sriracha for a zesty dipping sauce.

Yum!!