Introduction
If you’re searching for a delicious and crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish, look no further than these cheesy bacon-loaded potato skins. Made with baby yellow potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, these delectable bites are perfect for parties, game days, or simply as a treat for any occasion. Not only are they easy to make, but they also pack a punch of flavor that will have your guests coming back for more.
Detailed Ingredients
– 2 pounds baby yellow potatoes
– 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup sour cream
– Chopped green onions or fresh chives for garnish
Prep Time
Approximately 30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: Serves 6-8
Enjoy the simple yet delightful process of making these potato skins that are not only satisfying but also easy to customize with your favorite toppings. Gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this tasty treat!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
Spread the baby yellow potatoes evenly on a sheet pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat thoroughly.
Step 3: Bake the Potatoes
Bake the potatoes for about 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
Step 4: Hollow Out the Potatoes
Once cooled, slice each potato in half. Using a small spoon, carefully scoop out the center of each half, leaving a thin layer of potato attached to the skin to maintain structure.
Step 5: Brush the Skins
Brush the hollowed-out potato skins with the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season with a little more salt and black pepper.
Step 6: Bake the Skins
Return the potato skins to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the edges are browned and crispy.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Bacon
Remove the skins from the oven and evenly distribute the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon among them.
Step 8: Melt the Cheese
Place the filled potato skins back in the oven and bake for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Step 9: Top and Serve
Remove from the oven and top each potato skin bite with a small dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh chives.
Step 10: Enjoy!
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Note 1
Ensure the potatoes are fork-tender before attempting to hollow them out.
Note 2
Do not overbake the potato skins in Step 6, as they will continue to crisp up slightly in the next steps.
Note 3
Feel free to customize the toppings by adding other ingredients such as jalapeños, olives, or different types of cheese.
Note 4
These potato skins make a great appetizer or side dish for parties and gatherings.
Cook techniques
Roasting Potatoes
Roasting potatoes at a high temperature enhances their natural sweetness and creates a crispy exterior. Tossing the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper ensures even seasoning and helps achieve a golden brown crust.
Hollowing Potatoes
Carefully scooping out the centers of the potatoes allows for a perfect vessel to hold toppings. Leaving a thin layer of potato attached provides structural integrity, ensuring the skins can hold their shape during baking.
Brushing with Olive Oil
Brushing the hollowed-out potato skins with olive oil not only adds flavor but also helps them crisp up in the oven. This technique promotes a deliciously crunchy texture.
Layering Flavors
Distributing shredded cheese and crumbled bacon evenly across the potato skins allows for balanced flavor in each bite. The combination of melted cheese and crispy bacon creates a savory topping that complements the potatoes.
Garnishing
Adding a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions or chives just before serving enhances the dish’s appearance and adds a fresh, creamy element that contrasts with the richness of the cheese and bacon.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other small potatoes like red potatoes or fingerling potatoes, but cooking times may vary slightly.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can omit the bacon and add additional vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
What if I don’t have fresh chives or green onions?
You can substitute them with other fresh herbs like parsley or dill for garnish.
Can I prepare these potato skins in advance?
You can hollow the potatoes and prepare the fillings in advance; just store them separately in the refrigerator and assemble them before baking.
What are some additional toppings I can use?
Additional toppings can include jalapeños, guacamole, or even different types of cheese for a unique flavor twist.
Conclusion
This delicious recipe for loaded potato skins offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it an ideal appetizer or side dish for any gathering. The crispy skins, coupled with the savory bacon and melty cheddar, are sure to be a hit among your guests. Topped with creamy sour cream and fresh green onions, these potato skins provide a satisfying bite that is both indulgent and comforting.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Cheesy Bacon Stuffed Potatoes
Use the same baby yellow potatoes but instead of hollowing them out, bake them whole and then mash the insides with cheese, bacon, and sour cream.
Potato Salad with Bacon and Cheddar
Combine boiled and cubed baby yellow potatoes with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar, and a mix of sour cream and mayonnaise for a creamy salad.
Potato and Chive Soup
Transform the ingredients into a delicious potato soup by simmering chopped potatoes with broth, blending it until creamy, and adding in bacon, cheese, and chives.
Loaded Potato Nachos
Slice the potatoes into thin rounds, bake until crispy, and then top with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions for an exciting twist on nachos.
Potato Frittata with Cheese and Bacon
Mix diced baby potatoes, bacon, cheese, and eggs in a skillet and bake until set for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.
