Name: Baked Potato Skins Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 20 min
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 small to medium Russet potatoes; 1½ tablespoons canola oil or olive oil; Sea salt, to taste; 3 tablespoons butter; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon onion powder; ½ cup finely shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese; 4 slices bacon, crispy cooked and chopped; 1 green onion, finely sliced; Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 15 reviews

If you have a snack craving that’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with comforting potato goodness, you are going to fall in love with this Baked Potato Skins Recipe. It’s the perfect party appetizer or cozy night-in treat that combines the golden crunch of potato skins with the rich flavors of melted cheese, smoky bacon, and a hint of herbs. Once you try this, you’ll see why it’s one of those classic dishes everyone asks for on repeat. Let me walk you through all the delicious details—I promise, this recipe will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A baking tray lined with white parchment paper holds several halved potatoes. Six of the potatoes on the left side are whole with white interiors and golden-brown skins, while the six on the right are hollowed out with scooped centers indicating preparation for stuffing. A woman's hand is using a spoon to scoop out the insides from one of the potatoes on the right. Next to the tray on the right side is a clear glass bowl containing scooped-out potato pieces. The entire setup is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple but essential, each adding a critical touch to your potato skins’ irresistible texture, flavor, and color. From crisp, well-baked potatoes to sharp cheeses and smoky bacon, every element plays a starring role in this recipe.

6 small to medium Russet Potatoes: Their sturdy skins hold up perfectly for baking and scooping while fluffy insides create the ideal base.
1½ tablespoons canola or olive oil: Helps crisp up the skins while adding a subtle hint of richness.
Sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and adds the perfect seasoning finish.
3 tablespoons butter: Adds indulgent moisture and richness, creating that golden finish.
¼ teaspoon garlic powder: Introduces a mild, savory undertone without overpowering the other flavors.
¼ teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the savory depth and complements the cheese beautifully.
½ cup finely shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, this cheese provides classic comforting flavor.
½ cup finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds smooth creaminess and a mild bite that balances cheddar.
4 slices bacon, crispy cooked and chopped: Brings crunchy smokiness that makes the potato skins truly irresistible.
1 green onion, finely sliced: Offers fresh color and a subtle oniony bite as a bright garnish.
Sour cream (optional): A cool, tangy topping for extra creaminess and contrast.

How to Make Baked Potato Skins Recipe

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees. Scrub your Russet potatoes clean, then poke them several times with a fork to let steam escape during baking. Rub each potato with a little oil and sprinkle generously with sea salt. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the skin is crisp and the potatoes are tender inside. Let them cool until you can handle them comfortably.

Step 2: Scoop Out the Flesh

Raise the oven temperature to 450 degrees. Slice each potato in half lengthwise, then carefully use a spoon to scoop out the soft interior, leaving a sturdy ¼ to ½ inch of potato attached to the skin. This sturdy “shell” will hold your flavorful toppings.

Step 3: Season and Crisp the Skins

Melt the butter in the microwave and whisk in garlic and onion powders for that irresistible aroma and flavor. Brush this buttery mixture all over the insides and outsides of the potato skins to keep them flavorful and crispy. Arrange the skins back on the baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, then flip and bake another 10 minutes to get both sides perfectly crisped.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bacon

Now comes the fun part: topping! Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses over each potato skin, then scatter chopped crispy bacon on top. Return the skins to the oven for about 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts beautifully and begins to bubble.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

As soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the potato skins from the oven. Sprinkle fresh green onions over the top and add a dollop of sour cream if you like that cooling contrast. Your baked potato skins are ready to enjoy immediately—warm, gooey, and bursting with flavor.

How to Serve Baked Potato Skins Recipe

The image shows several small potato skins arranged on a white marbled surface. Each potato skin has three visible layers: a crispy golden brown outer skin, a melted cheese layer inside with a slightly shiny texture, and a topping of white sour cream in the center. Scattered on top of the sour cream are pieces of crispy reddish-brown bacon and bright green chopped scallions. In the background, there is a beige bowl with more white sour cream. The focus is on the middle potato skin being held by a woman's hand from the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Besides green onions and sour cream, you can experiment with other garnishes to elevate your presentation and flavor. Think fresh chopped chives, a sprinkle of smoked paprika for color and smoky depth, or even a dash of hot sauce if you like a little kick. These simple add-ons make each bite exciting and help balance the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Baked potato skins make an excellent appetizer or party snack, but they also pair wonderfully with fresh, crisp salads or vibrant veggie crudités to lighten the plate. A zesty coleslaw or a bowl of tomato soup creates a comforting, complete meal that’s both satisfying and well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

Make serving interactive by placing toppings like chopped tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or shredded lettuce in small bowls nearby so guests can customize their skins. Alternatively, arrange the skins on a wooden board with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy aioli for a fun, shareable platter that will impress at any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to save any of these addicting potato skins (though who really does?), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the skins from getting soggy, try placing a paper towel in the container to absorb extra moisture.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked potato skins before adding cheese and bacon toppings. Lay them flat on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to eat, bake them until heated through, then add your favorite toppings fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 375 degrees for about 10-15 minutes, or until the skins are warmed and crispy again. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as it tends to make potato skins soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for this Baked Potato Skins Recipe?

Russet potatoes are preferred because of their thick skins and fluffy interior that crisps well, but you can experiment with Yukon Gold or other firm-skinned potatoes. Just be aware thinner skins may not hold up as well during scooping and baking.

Is it necessary to cook the bacon beforehand?

Yes! To get that perfect crispy texture and smoky flavor, cook the bacon fully before chopping and adding to the potato skins. Raw bacon will not have the same delightful crunch and may cause sogginess.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted veggies for flavor and texture. You might also sprinkle some smoked paprika or add a dash of liquid smoke to mimic that smoky bacon taste.

What cheese works best for this recipe?

The classic blend of sharp cheddar and creamy Monterey Jack offers a perfect balance of flavor and meltability. You can substitute with mozzarella for milder flavor or pepper jack for a bit of spice, depending on your taste.

How do I get extra crispy potato skins?

Rubbing the skins with oil and sea salt before baking, and baking twice—once for the potatoes and again after scooping—helps develop that wonderful crunch. Also, make sure to flip the skins midway during the second bake for even crispness.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Potato Skins Recipe is one of those irresistible dishes that brings so much joy to the table. It’s crispy, cheesy, and loaded with bold flavors that make every bite feel like a little celebration. Whether you’re hosting friends, looking for a comforting snack, or just want to treat yourself, I hope you give this recipe a try and enjoy it as much as I do. Happy baking and happy eating!