Description
Looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting? These Cheddar Oven Baked Potato Skins are a go-to for game days, parties, or even casual weeknight snacks. Baked to perfection, each potato shell is filled with sharp cheddar, crunchy bacon bits, and topped with green onions for a burst of flavor. It’s a simple, satisfying, and easy recipe ideal for quick snacks, party appetizers, or fun dinner ideas. Whether you’re looking for something indulgent or just want an easy recipe to impress, this dish fits the bill.
Ingredients
2 large russet potatoes
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 strips cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
2 green onions, sliced
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes clean and pierce each with a fork several times. Bake for 45-60 minutes or until fork-tender. Let cool slightly.
2. Slice potatoes in half lengthwise. Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato inside the skins. Save the insides for mashed potatoes or another dish.
3. Brush both sides of the potato skins with melted butter or olive oil. Place them skin-side down on a baking sheet. Sprinkle lightly with salt.
4. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes until the edges become crisp and golden.
5. Sprinkle the insides of each skin with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Top with sliced green onions and a pinch of black pepper. Serve warm with sour cream or ranch dip if desired.
Notes
For extra crispiness, preheat your baking sheet in the oven before placing the skins on it.
Don’t over-scoop—leaving a thin layer of potato helps keep the skins sturdy and satisfying.
You can mix cheeses (like mozzarella or pepper jack) for a melty, stretchy variation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 skins
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 11 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg