Print

Crispy Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins with Cheddar and Bacon

crispy air fryer loaded potato skins - featured image
Print Recipe

These crispy air fryer loaded potato skins with cheddar and bacon are a quick, easy, and indulgent snack perfect for game day or casual entertaining. They deliver a satisfying crunch with a gooey, smoky center without the need for deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large baking potatoes (Russet works best for crispy skins)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil for a subtle buttery taste)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional spices: pinch of smoked paprika or garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly (about 10 minutes).
  2. Pierce each potato a few times with a fork. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a knife.
  3. Remove potatoes and let cool slightly, about 15 minutes.
  4. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch thick shell. Reserve the scooped potato for another use.
  5. Brush the potato skins with olive oil. Season generously with salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika or garlic powder.
  6. Place the skins in the air fryer basket skin-side down. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until the skins start to crisp up.
  7. Flip the skins over and sprinkle the inside with shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon. Return to the air fryer for another 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Carefully remove the skins and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for best crispiness. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness. Leaving a bit of potato flesh inside the skins helps them hold shape and prevents brittleness.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato skins, air fryer, cheddar, bacon, crispy snack, game day recipe, loaded potato skins, easy appetizer

Find it online: https://breezybake.com/crispy-air-fryer-loaded-potato-skins-with-cheddar-and-bacon-recipe-you-must-try/