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Crispy Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins Recipe Easy Bacon Cheddar Snack

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A quick and easy snack featuring crispy air fryer potato skins loaded with sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, perfect for parties or a comforting treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium russet potatoes
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 2 stalks green onions, chopped
  • Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Pierce each russet potato several times with a fork. Place on a baking sheet and bake in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 45-50 minutes until tender when pierced.
  3. Cook bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain and crumble once cool.
  4. Let baked potatoes cool enough to handle. Cut each in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) of potato on the skin.
  5. Toss potato skins in a bowl with olive oil or melted butter, salt, and pepper to coat lightly.
  6. Place skins in a single layer in the air fryer basket (work in batches if needed). Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until edges are crispy and golden.
  7. Remove skins and sprinkle shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon evenly over each. Return to air fryer for another 3-4 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to keep skins crispy. Toss skins lightly in oil or butter before air frying. Use sharp cheddar for best melting and flavor. Rest potatoes after baking to dry skins for better crisping. For reheating, use air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to maintain crispness. Variations include vegetarian options with mushrooms or caramelized onions, and dairy-free swaps with vegan cheese and turkey bacon.

Nutrition

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