Crispy Potato Skins are a golden, crunchy snack or appetizer that’s irresistibly delicious. The crispy shells are filled with melted cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh green onions, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Air-frying gives them a healthier twist without compromising on the taste, making them ideal for gatherings, game nights, or as a tasty side dish.
Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/3 cup cooked bacon bits
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- Sour cream (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Pierce each potato with a fork a few times.
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Place the whole potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re tender and cooked through. Allow them to cool slightly.
- Hollow Out the Potatoes:
- Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato attached to the skin. Save the scooped-out potato for another use (like mashed potatoes).
- Season the Potato Shells:
- Brush the insides and outsides of the potato skins with olive oil. Sprinkle garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper evenly over them.
- Air-Fry the Potato Shells:
- Place the potato shells in the air fryer basket in a single layer, skin-side down. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy and golden.
- Add the Toppings:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and bacon bits into the crispy potato shells. Return them to the air fryer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Remove from the air fryer and top with green onions. Serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream or your favorite dipping sauce.
Time:
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 4 people (2 potato skins per person).
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: 7g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: ~300mg
Key Notes:
- Potato Flesh Use: Save the scooped-out potato flesh for making mashed potatoes or potato pancakes.
- Customization: Swap cheddar for mozzarella or add jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or black beans for a veggie-loaded version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Crispiness Tip: Ensure the potato shells are well-coated with oil before air frying for extra crunch.
Enjoy these Crispy Potato Skins as a perfect comfort food with just the right balance of indulgence and healthiness! Let me know if you’d like any further details! 😊