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Crispy Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins

crispy air fryer loaded potato skins - featured image

A quick and easy snack recipe featuring crispy potato skins loaded with melted sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and fresh scallions, all made healthier and crispier using an air fryer.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium to large russet potatoes, washed and dried
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 46 bacon slices, cooked and crumbled
  • 23 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prick the russet potatoes a few times with a fork and bake whole for 45-50 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  2. Cool the potatoes slightly so they are safe to handle. Slice each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the soft flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato attached to the skin.
  3. Brush the potato skins inside and out with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika if using.
  4. Place the potato skins in the air fryer basket skin side down. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes until edges start to crisp and brown, checking halfway through.
  5. Flip the skins skin side up and sprinkle each with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Return to the air fryer for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. Remove the skins carefully and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on the side.

Notes

Do not skip the initial baking of potatoes in the oven for a creamy interior. Avoid microwaving potatoes as it results in floppy skins. Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even crisping. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

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