Baked potato skins are the perfect appetizer for entertaining guests or a family night in. Not only are potato skins simple to make, but they are versatile and you can top them with almost any ingredient.
They can be classified into two camps – those who favor classic baked potato skins, and those who opt for innovative versions like bacon-jalapeno popper skins and creamy loaded horseradish skins. Classic Baked Potato Skins consist of potato halves that have been hollowed out, rubbed with oil, sprinkled with paprika and salt, then baked until golden brown. Afterwards it is topped with a generous dose of crispy bacon bits and melted cheese. This classic appetizer is sure to please all crowds!
What is so special about Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version?
Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version has a special place in many people's hearts. Not only are they hearty and delicious snacks, but they also come with endless customizability. Whether you opt for a crispy-on-the-outside and fluffy-on-the-inside version, or one loaded with toppings such as chives, bacon bits, cheese, and sour cream, the classic Baked Potato Skin is special because of the way it can reliably cater to almost any craving or dietary needs. It's no wonder these tasty bites of goodness will always remain a classic favorite!
This was inspired by my other recipe on this site, and pairs well with this amazing sidedish recipe.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 12 potato skins
Jump to:
- What is so special about Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version?
- Ingredients needed to make Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version
- Instructions for making Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version
- Variations when making Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version
- Storage
- Top tips when making Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version
- Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version
Ingredients needed to make Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version
6 large baking potatoes, cleaned and pierced several times with a fork
2 T. olive oil or bacon grease (optional, see note above)
2 c. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
6 strips thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled*
½ c. sour cream
2 large green onions, sliced, green parts only
2 T. fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
*If using the bacon grease to season the skins, cook the bacon in a skillet while the
potatoes are baking. Reserve the grease for Step #5 below.
Instructions for making Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version
- Position the top oven rack in the center position and preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Place the potatoes in the preheated oven and bake until cooked through,
approximately 50 minutes. Remove potatoes from oven and transfer to a
baking rack to cool for 10 minutes or until cool enough to handle. - Once cool, cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the soft
interior with a spoon, leaving a one-quarter-inch margin around the skins.
(Save the cooked potato filling for another recipe). - Place the potato skins cut side down on a baking rack set over a baking
sheet. Brush with olive oil or bacon grease (see the note above) and place back
in the hot oven for 10 minutes. - Remove the baking sheet from the oven and flip over the skins with tongs. Fill
each skin with an equal amount of cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon and
place back in the oven for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted. - Remove from oven and top each potato skin with a dollop of sour cream,
some sliced green onion, and a little fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Variations when making Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version
When it comes to variations for making the classic Baked Potato Skins, there is no shortage of delicious options! You can start with the standard melted cheeses such as cheddar, mozzarella or pepper jack, and add a variety of other toppings like bacon bits, chives, diced tomatoes, jalapenos and sour cream. For a unique twist on this dish, try building your potato skins around something like pulled pork or baked beans. Or you can embrace its hearty side by adding mixtures of sautéed veggies like mushrooms and peppers. No matter which ingredients you choose to use in creating your variations, Baked Potato Skins is always a hit!
Storage
Baked potato skins, especially the classic version that includes bacon and cheese, are a popular dish enjoyed in homes as an appetizer or side. storage Depending on how you decide to store them, baked potato skins can remain fresh for up to seven days. When stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer, your potato skins will last longer and remain just as tasty. For ultimate freshness, it’s best not to roll them up for storage; instead, keep the classic toppings on top and seal them in a container. Baked potato skins are incredibly flavorful when stored correctly, so don’t forget to enjoy them within a week’s time!
Top tips when making Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version
For perfect crispy, crunchy Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version every time, always follow the top tips. Start by prepping the potatoes in a way that will give optimal results: baking the potatoes in the oven or boiling them in water until tender. To achieve delicious golden brown skins, spread oil and salt on the outside of each potato before baking for an extra tasty touch. Once cooked you'll need to scoop out some of the potatoes from each to create a little shell. For added flavor top your potato skins with cheese, bacon, and fresh parsley before popping them back in the oven until they reach that perfect crunchy texture. Following these top tips ensures a melt-in-your-mouth Baked Potato Skin experience every single time!
Baked Potato Skins – Classic Version
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 12
Description
Baked potato skins are the perfect appetizer for entertaining guests or a family night in. Not only are potato skins simple to make, but they are versatile and you can top them with almost any ingredient.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
6 large baking potatoes, cleaned and pierced several times with a fork
2 T. olive oil or bacon grease (optional, see note above)
2 c. sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
6 strips thick-cut bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled*
½ c. sour cream
2 large green onions, sliced, green parts only
2 T. fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped
*If using the bacon grease to season the skins, cook the bacon in a skillet while the potatoes are baking. Reserve the grease for Step #5 below.
Instructions
-
Position the top oven rack in the center position and pre-heat oven to 425°F.
-
Place the potatoes in the pre-heated oven and bake until cooked through, approximately 50 minutes. Remove potatoes from oven and transfer to a baking rack to cool for 10 minutes or until cool enough to handle.
-
Once cool, cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the soft interior with a spoon, leaving a one-quarter inch margin around the skins. (Save the cooked potato filling for another recipe).
-
Place the potato skins cut side down on a baking rack set over a baking sheet. Brush with olive oil or bacon grease (see note above) and place back in the hot oven for 10 minutes.
-
Remove the baking sheet from the oven and flip over the skins with tongs. Fill each skin with an equal amount of cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon and place back in the oven for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
-
Remove from oven and top each potato skin with a dollop of sour cream, some sliced green onion, and a little fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 1 hr - 20 mins
