Description
Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside—these Cheddar Oven Baked Potato Skins are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or snack. Loaded with sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and topped with fresh green onions, they’re the perfect easy recipe for game days, party food ideas, or quick comfort food. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack twist or new dinner ideas, this easy recipe delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture in every bite.
Ingredients
1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
4 medium russet potatoes
¾ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 slices cooked crispy bacon, crumbled
2 green onions, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub and dry the potatoes, then prick each a few times with a fork. Place directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-50 minutes until tender.
2. Let potatoes cool for 10-15 minutes. Slice each in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato attached to the skin.
3. Brush both sides of each potato skin with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Arrange skin-side up on a lined baking sheet.
4. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10 minutes. Flip and bake for another 8-10 minutes until crispy and golden.
5. Flip the skins flesh-side up. Sprinkle each with shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon. Return to oven for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from oven, top with sliced green onions, and serve hot with sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side.
Notes
Choose evenly sized russet potatoes to ensure consistent baking and scooping.
Don’t discard the scooped-out potato—use it for mashed potatoes or add to soups.
For crispier skins, avoid overcrowding the baking tray and use parchment paper or foil.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato skin
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
Keywords: easy recipe, party appetizer, comfort food, game day snack, dinner ideas