Loaded potato skins are the kind of recipe that never fails to bring smiles to the table. With crispy edges, gooey melted cheese, and smoky bacon crumbles, these potato boats are the perfect mix of texture and flavor. They’re simple enough for any level of home cook and offer endless topping possibilities to suit your preferences.
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I love making loaded potato skins for game day because they’re such a crowd-pleaser and so easy to prep in advance. I can bake the potatoes ahead of time and keep them in the fridge until I’m ready to crisp them up and pile on the toppings. It’s perfect for gatherings because everyone can grab one (or a few!), and they’re always a hit no matter who’s at the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need all the ingredients shown in the photograph below.
How to Make Loaded Potato Skins with Step-By-Step Instructions
Scroll down for the full recipe card containing a full printable recipe and measurements in both US customary and metric units.
You’ll find making this recipe easy if you follow my straightforward instructions. Each step builds perfectly, so you’ll have crispy, cheesy, and perfectly loaded potato skins every time!
Bake the potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200ºC).
Start by poking each potato several times with a fork to let the steam escape as they bake. Arrange the potatoes on a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for 1 hour.
Once done, let them cool for about 15 minutes—just until you can handle them without burning your hands.
Prepare the potato boats
Slice the potatoes lengthwise in half. Scoop out some of the potato flesh with a spoon, but don’t overdo it—leave a nice layer of potato near the skin to create sturdy little ‘boats.’
Broil the potato skins
Turn your oven to broil. Brush both the insides and outsides of your potato skins with melted butter, giving them a flavorful, crispy coating.
Sprinkle a little salt and pepper over them before placing them back on the baking sheet. Broil for about 7–8 minutes or until the skins are crispy and golden brown.
Fill and broil again
Now comes the fun part! Spoon some sour cream into each potato boat, then generously pile on shredded cheese.
Place them back under the broiler for another 3–4 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you want the cheese to melt and get bubbly but not burn.
Add toppings and serve
Top your loaded potato skins with crumbled bacon, a sprinkle of chopped green onions, and a pinch of black pepper.
They’re best served warm, so grab a plate and enjoy them right away!
Easy Loaded Potato Skins Recipe
Add Preferred SourceIngredients
- 6 small to medium sized Russet potatoes washed and pat dry
- 2 cups cheese mix mozzarella and cheddar shredded
- 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- ¼ cup unsalted butter melted
- Sour cream for topping
- Green onions chopped, for topping
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200ºC). Wash and pat dry the potatoes. Poke each one a few times with a fork, place them on a baking sheet, and bake for about 1 hour. Let the potatoes cool for 15 minutes or until they’re safe to handle.6 small to medium sized Russet potatoes
- Cut each one lengthwise in half and scoop out some of the potato flesh using a spoon, leaving a thick layer near the skin to form sturdy "boats."
- Set your oven to broil. Brush both the inside and outside of each potato skin with melted butter, then return them to the baking sheet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Broil for 7–8 minutes, or until the insides are golden and crispy.¼ cup unsalted butter, Salt and pepper
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and fill each one with a dollop of sour cream and a generous layer of shredded cheese. Place them back under the broiler for 3–4 minutes, just until the cheese melts and bubbles.Sour cream, 2 cups cheese mix mozzarella and cheddar
- Top each potato with crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, and a dash of black pepper. Serve warm and enjoy.Green onions, 8 slices bacon
Notes
- Choosing the right potatoes: Stick with Russet potatoes—they’re sturdy and hold their shape well after baking.
- Don’t over-scoop: Leave a thick enough layer of potato flesh to keep the skins from falling apart.
- Crispy skin trick: Brushing the skins with butter before broiling adds a rich, crispy texture that’s hard to resist.
- Cheese choices: Using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar gives the perfect balance of flavor and a gooey, stretchy texture.
- Cook bacon ahead: Cook and crumble your bacon in advance to save time when assembling.
- Keep a close eye while broiling: The cheese melts fast under the broiler, so check frequently to avoid burning.
- Optional toppings: Add a dash of hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy twist!
Nutrition
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to ensure these loaded potato skins turn out perfectly:
- Choosing the right potatoes: Stick with Russet potatoes—they’re sturdy and hold their shape well after baking.
- Don’t over-scoop: Leave a thick enough layer of potato flesh to keep the skins from falling apart.
- Crispy skin trick: Brushing the skins with butter before broiling adds a rich, crispy texture that’s hard to resist.
- Cheese choices: Using a mix of mozzarella and cheddar gives the perfect balance of flavor and a gooey, stretchy texture.
- Cook bacon ahead: Cook and crumble your bacon in advance to save time when assembling.
- Keep a close eye while broiling: The cheese melts fast under the broiler, so check frequently to avoid burning.
- Optional toppings: Add a dash of hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of chili powder for a spicy twist!
How to Store Leftover Loaded Potato Skins
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–12 minutes, which helps them regain some of their crispiness.
What to Serve With Loaded Potato Skins
Loaded potato skins are a perfect appetizer or side dish! Pair them with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping, or serve them alongside crowd favorites like chicken wings, burgers, or sliders.
If you’re planning a party, a crisp green salad or veggie tray balances out the richness of these cheesy bites.
More Easy Appetizer Recipes for You to Try at Home
I’ve got even more appetizer recipes that are perfect for gatherings or casual snacks, and I think you’ll love them!
