Potato Skins

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• ¼ cup sliced green onions
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sour cream (for serving, optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes under running water and dry them. Prick each potato several times with a fork.
3. Bake Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly.
4. Slice Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out a portion of the flesh, leaving a thin layer inside to maintain the structure.
5. Season Skins: Brush the inside of each potato half with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for Crispiness: Place the potato skins on a baking sheet, skin-side down, and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Flip them and bake for another 10 minutes, or until they are crispy.
7. Add Toppings: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the insides generously with cheese and crumbled bacon.
8. Final Bake: Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with green onions, and serve hot with sour cream on the side for dipping.

Tips for Tailgate Events

• Pre-Bake: Prepare the potato skins in advance by baking the potatoes and filling them with toppings at home. Then, simply reheat them on a grill or portable oven at the tailgate.
• Easy Serving: Use a serving tray or basket lined with parchment paper for easy handling and to avoid mess.
• Keep Warm: If you’re using a portable grill, keep the skins warm in a foil pan covered with foil until ready to serve.
• Variety of Toppings: Offer a selection of toppings, such as jalapeños, avocado slices, or different cheeses, so guests can customize their potato skins.
• Dipping Sauces: Bring along a variety of dipping sauces like ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or spicy aioli to enhance the flavor and appeal.

Enjoy your delicious potato skins at the next tailgate!