Super Bowl Loaded Potato Skins

Name: Super Bowl Loaded Potato Skins
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon; 1/4 cup sliced green onions; Sour cream for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love diving into the flavors of Super Bowl Loaded Potato Skins, especially during game day gatherings. The combination of crispy potato skins, gooey cheese, and savory bacon creates an irresistible starter that never fails to impress my friends and family. We often make these together, customizing the toppings to suit everyone's tastes, making each bite a delightful surprise. With just a few simple ingredients and some oven magic, you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time. Trust me; you won't want to miss out on this scrumptious treat!

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:40:13.210Z

Perfectly loaded potato skins have become a favorite in my home, especially during the Super Bowl. I've found that baking them at a high temperature not only crispifies the skins but also enhances their natural potato flavor. I enjoy experimenting with various toppings; one of my favorites includes a drizzle of ranch dressing that elevates each bite into a new flavor dimension.

When hosting game day, I always prepare a couple of trays to accommodate the hungry crowd. Serving them with a side of sour cream gives an extra creamy balance to the crispy and savory skins. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll find it hard to go back to regular snacks!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy potato skins topped with melted cheese and crispy bacon bits
Customizable toppings so everyone can create their perfect bite
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone wanting more

      

Perfecting the Potato Skins

The choice of potatoes is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your loaded potato skins. Russet potatoes are the best option because of their starchy nature, which results in a fluffy interior that contrasts beautifully with the crispy skin. When selecting potatoes, look for those that are firm and have a smooth exterior. Avoid any that feel soft or have blemishes, as these can affect the overall quality of your dish.

To ensure even cooking, it’s essential to poke several holes in the potatoes before baking. This allows steam to escape and prevents them from bursting in the oven. After baking, let the potatoes cool for a few minutes; this makes them easier to handle when you’re slicing them open. If they are too hot to touch, use a kitchen towel or oven mitts for protection.

Customizing for Everyone

One of the best aspects of loaded potato skins is their versatility. While cheddar cheese and bacon are classic toppings, consider various options that cater to different tastes or dietary preferences. For a vegetarian twist, try adding toppings like sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or a blend of bell peppers. You can even use a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep things vegan-friendly, ensuring that everyone at your gathering can enjoy a delicious bite.

Don’t forget about the garnishing options! Freshly chopped herbs, such as cilantro or parsley, can elevate the presentation and introduce bright flavors. Additionally, feel free to serve these skins with a variety of sauces on the side, such as ranch dressing or spicy sriracha mayonnaise. These small adjustments can make the experience even more enjoyable for your guests.

Ingredients

For the Potato Skins

4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup sliced green onions
Sour cream for serving

Gathering fresh ingredients makes all the difference!

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and dry the russet potatoes. Poke several holes in each potato with a fork, then rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.

Bake the Potatoes

Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45 minutes or until tender. Remove from oven and allow them to cool slightly.

Make the Skins

Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer. Brush the insides with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

Add Toppings

Place the empty potato halves back on the baking sheet. Fill each skin with cheese and bacon.

Bake Again

Return them to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with green onions, and serve with sour cream on the side.

Don’t forget to watch out for those cheesy drips!

Pro Tips

Feel free to switch up the toppings with jalapeños, avocado, or even chili for an extra kick!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover potato skins, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispiness during reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and arrange the skins in a single layer on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed throughout. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the skins soggy and unappetizing.

If you're planning to make these potato skins in advance for a party, prepare the potatoes up to the step of filling them with cheese and bacon. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to one day. When you're ready to serve, simply bake them for 15-20 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your potato skins aren't as crispy as you'd like, ensure you're using enough olive oil when brushing the insides. A good amount helps achieve that golden, crispy texture. Additionally, avoid overloading the skins with toppings, as it can lead to a soggy bottom. Keep the layering moderate to enjoy the perfect balance of flavor and texture.

Watch the baking time carefully, especially during the second bake when you're melting the cheese. An overly long bake can lead to dried-out skins, while too short may leave the cheese unmelted. Keep an eye out for the cheese bubbling and starting to brown slightly – that's your cue to take them out for maximum cheesiness!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will give a unique and slightly sweeter flavor to the skins.

→ How can I keep my potato skins crispy?

Make sure the skins are well-oiled and avoid overloading them with toppings. Bake them until they just start to crisp up.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the potatoes a day before, scoop them, and add your toppings just before you bake them again.

→ What variations can I try with toppings?

You can try adding pulled pork, broccoli, or different types of cheese for a fun twist!