Crispy on the outside and loaded with melted cheese on the inside, cheesy baked potato skins are the ultimate comfort food. Perfect as a snack, appetiser, party food or even a casual family dinner, these golden potato skins are easy to make and endlessly customisable. Serve them with your favourite dips and watch them disappear in minutes.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
- 6 medium potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 200g cheddar cheese, grated
- 4 spring onions, finely sliced
- 4 rashers bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)
- Sour cream for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the potatoes
Preheat the oven to 200°C.
Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Rub with a little olive oil and place on a baking tray. Bake for 45 minutes or until tender.
Step 2: Prepare the skins
Allow the potatoes to cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthways.
Carefully scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1cm attached to the skin. Save the potato flesh for mashed potatoes, soup or another recipe.
Step 3: Season the skins
Brush both sides of the potato skins with olive oil.
Sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper.
Step 4: Bake until crispy
Place the skins skin-side up on a baking tray.
Bake for 10 minutes.
Turn them over and bake for another 5 minutes until golden and crisp.
Step 5: Add the toppings
Fill each potato skin with grated cheese and bacon if using.
Return to the oven for 5 to 7 minutes until the cheese has melted and started bubbling.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle with spring onions and serve immediately with sour cream.
Tips for Perfect Potato Skins
- Choose floury potatoes such as baking potatoes for the crispiest results.
- Don't scoop out too much potato or the skins may tear.
- For extra crunch, bake the skins a little longer before adding the cheese.
- Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy version.
- Try a mixture of cheeses for extra flavour.
Variations
Loaded Pizza Potato Skins
Top with mozzarella, diced peppers and sliced pepperoni.
Chicken and Cheese Potato Skins
Add shredded roast chicken and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
Vegetarian Potato Skins
Fill with sweetcorn, peppers, mushrooms and cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Sweet chilli sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Fresh green salad
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispness.
Conclusion
Cheesy baked potato skins are simple, satisfying and packed with flavour. Their crispy texture and gooey cheese filling make them a guaranteed crowd-pleaser whether you're serving them at a family movie night, weekend braai or casual get-together.
