Crispy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying, these Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins with Cheddar & Bacon are the ultimate party appetizer or indulgent snack. Made with golden, crunchy potato skins, gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a dollop of cool sour cream, these potato skins are easy to make and impossible to resist. Perfect for game days, parties, or a cozy night in, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy and Cheesy: The perfect combination of crunchy potato skins and melty cheddar cheese.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick air fryer cooking.
- Crowd-Pleasing: A hit at parties, game nights, or family gatherings.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings for a personalized twist.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Russet potatoes (4, baked & cooled): The perfect choice for crispy skins with a fluffy interior.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Helps crisp up the skins in the air fryer.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp), salt & black pepper (to taste): Adds flavor to the potato base.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 cup): A rich, melty topping for that classic loaded potato taste.
- Cooked, crumbled bacon (½ cup): Brings a savory, smoky crunch to every bite.
- Sour cream (½ cup): A cool, creamy contrast to the crispy, cheesy skins.
- Green onions or chives (¼ cup, chopped): A fresh, slightly sharp garnish to balance the flavors.
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Tips and Tricks
- Bake Potatoes Ahead: Save time by baking the potatoes in advance and storing them in the fridge.
- Extra Crispy: For even crispier skins, brush the insides with olive oil before air frying.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the potato skins up to the cheese and bacon step, then refrigerate. Air fry just before serving.
- Double the Batch: These potato skins are so good, you’ll want to make extra!
Variations and Customizations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or black beans.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix shredded mozzarella or pepper jack cheese with the cheddar.
- Loaded Toppings: Add guacamole, salsa, or ranch dressing for extra flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
- Dips: Serve with ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or a creamy garlic dip.
- Sides: Pair with a fresh green salad, coleslaw, or buffalo wings.
- Drinks: Enjoy with a cold beer, iced tea, or a glass of white wine.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftover potato skins in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked potato skins on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Air fry from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Popular Questions
1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes work well and add a slightly sweeter flavor.
2. How do I bake the potatoes?
Prick the potatoes with a fork, rub with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
3. Can I make these in the oven?
Absolutely! Bake the potato skins at 425°F (220°C) for 10-12 minutes, then add cheese and bacon and bake for another 5 minutes.
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Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins with Cheddar & Bacon
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 potato skins (4 servings) 1x
Description
Crispy, cheesy, and full of flavor, these air fryer potato skins are the ultimate snack! Filled with melted cheddar and bacon, topped with sour cream and green onions—perfect for any occasion!
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes, baked and cooled (use leftover baked potatoes or bake fresh ones)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing and crispiness)
- ½ tsp garlic powder (for savory flavor)
- Salt & black pepper to taste (to season)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for gooey, melty goodness)
- ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon (for a smoky, crispy topping)
- ½ cup sour cream (for a cool, creamy finish)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (for garnish and freshness)
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Slice the baked potatoes in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato inside the skins.
- Brush the potato skins with olive oil, then season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Air Fry the Potato Skins:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the potato skins in the air fryer basket, skin-side down.
- Cook for 7-8 minutes, or until the skins are golden and crisp.
Add Cheese & Bacon:
- Sprinkle the inside of each potato skin with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Return the skins to the air fryer and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finish with Toppings:
- Remove the potato skins from the air fryer.
- Top each skin with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions or chives.
Serve & Enjoy:
- Plate the potato skins and serve immediately. Watch them disappear!
Notes
- For a glossy finish, brush the potato skins with melted butter before air frying.
- If you don’t have green onions, use fresh chives or parsley for garnish.
- Always taste and adjust the seasoning before air frying.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
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