These Loaded Potato Skins are the ultimate appetizer for any gathering, from game day watch parties to casual get-togethers. Crispy baked potato halves are generously topped with crumbled bacon, gooey Colby Jack Cheese, vibrant green onions, and a dollop of tangy sour cream, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch followed by a burst of savory, cheesy goodness, making these potato skins a crowd favorite.
With straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this dish(Loaded Potato Skins and Colby Jack Cheese) is accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The recipe yields 12 servings, ideal for feeding a group, and includes detailed nutrition information to help with dietary planning. Whether you’re hosting a party or looking for a comforting snack, these Loaded Potato Skins with Colby Jack Cheese are sure to impress. Plus, our tips and FAQs provide extra guidance to ensure your potato skins turn out perfectly every time.
Timing
📌 Number of Servings: 12 potato skins
⏳ Preparation Time: 20 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
🥢 Ingredients :
✅ 6 medium russet potatoes (about 2.5 lbs)
✅ 2 tablespoons olive oil
✅ 1 teaspoon kosher salt
✅ 6 slices bacon
✅ 1 ½ cups shredded Colby Jack Cheese
✅ 3 green onions, thinly sliced
✅ ¾ cup sour cream
✅ Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
👨🍳 Instructions :
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Bake Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and pat dry. Coat each potato evenly with olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt for enhanced flavor and crispiness. Place on the baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Prepare the bacon while the potatoes are baking by frying it in a skillet over medium heat for 8–10 minutes, or until it turns crisp. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any extra oil, then chop or break into small, crispy bits.
- Prepare Potato Skins: Let the potatoes cool slightly, then cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh, leaving about ¼-inch of potato attached to the skin. Reserve the scooped potato for another use.
- Crisp Skins: Brush the inside of the potato skins with olive oil, sprinkle with black pepper, and place cut-side up on the baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes to crisp.
- Add Toppings: Remove potato skins from the oven. Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack Cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over each skin. Place back in the oven for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted and starts to bubble.
- Garnish and Serve: Top each potato skin with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions. Serve immediately.
💡 TIPS :
- Use russet potatoes for the best texture, as they bake up crispy and hold their shape well.
- To save time, bake the potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling.
- For extra flavor, mix chopped chives or parsley into the sour cream before dolloping.
- Ensure the bacon is fully crispy to avoid a chewy texture in the final dish.
- Customize toppings by adding jalapeños for heat or swapping Colby Jack Cheese for cheddar if desired.
📊Nutrition Information (per serving)
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and vary based on ingredients and portion sizes
Calories: 180 kcal
Total Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrate: 12g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 6g
❓ FAQ :
- Is it possible to prepare Loaded Potato Skins in advance?
Yes, bake the potatoes and scoop out the flesh up to 2 days in advance. Store in the refrigerator, then crisp and add toppings just before serving. - Can I freeze Loaded Potato Skins?
Yes, freeze assembled (but unbaked) potato skins on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 15-20 minutes. - What can I substitute for Colby Jack Cheese?
You can use cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a similar flavor and melt. - Are Loaded Potato Skins gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe(Loaded Potato Skins and Colby Jack Cheese) is naturally gluten-free, but always check ingredient labels to ensure no cross-contamination. - Can I make this recipe(Loaded Potato Skins and Colby Jack Cheese) vegetarian?
Substitute bacon with vegetarian bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free version. - How do I prevent soggy potato skins?
Ensure the potato skins are baked until crispy before adding toppings, and avoid overloading with wet ingredients. - Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Yes, sweet potatoes work well, but they may be softer and require slightly less baking time. - What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-12 minutes to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving. - Can I add other toppings?
Absolutely! Try diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor. - How do I choose the best potatoes?
Select medium-sized russet potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free of sprouts for the best results.
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