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Crispy Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins

crispy air fryer loaded potato skins - featured image

These crispy air fryer loaded potato skins with cheddar and bacon are a quick, easy, and delicious snack perfect for casual gatherings or a comforting solo treat. The air fryer crisps the skins perfectly while melting the cheese and crisping the bacon for a crave-worthy flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium russet potatoes (about 2 pounds / 900 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon salt (5 grams)
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper (2 grams)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (100 grams)
  • 6 slices cooked thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 2 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and prick them a few times with a fork. Place them directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  2. Remove potatoes and let them cool enough to handle. Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the insides, leaving about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) of potato flesh attached to the skin. Save the scooped potato for another use.
  3. Lightly brush or toss the potato skins with olive oil. Season with salt and black pepper on both sides.
  4. Arrange the potato skins in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until the skins start turning golden and crispy.
  5. Remove the basket and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each skin. Top with chopped cooked bacon.
  6. Return to the air fryer and cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles without burning.
  7. Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Notes

Cook potato skins in batches if your air fryer basket is small to avoid overcrowding and soggy skins. Watch cheese carefully during the last few minutes to prevent burning. For reheating, use the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

Nutrition

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