Potato Skin Bites are crispy snacks made from baked potato skins filled with cheese, bacon, and green onions. They’re the perfect mix of crunchy and cheesy goodness!
These little bites are a hit at parties—everyone loves them! I usually serve them with sour cream on the side, and let’s be real, they disappear fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for making potato skins because of their sturdy texture. If you’re looking for alternatives or have small potatoes, consider using Yukon Gold. They’re nice and creamy!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor that stands out. If you’re aiming for a milder taste, mozzarella is a great substitute. You can also use a blend of cheeses for added flavor!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch. If you’re vegetarian or not a fan of bacon, you can swap it for crumbled tempeh or omit it altogether. Toasted nuts like pecans can also work for crunch.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang. Greek yogurt is a wonderful substitute if you want something slightly healthier. You could also try a dairy-free sour cream if you’re vegan.
How Do I Get My Potato Skin Bites Crispy?
Crispiness is key for potato skin bites! Here’s how to achieve it:
- First, make sure to bake the potatoes until they’re completely tender. This ensures they won’t be undercooked.
- After scooping out the flesh, brushing the skins with olive oil is essential. This creates a protective layer that crisps up nicely in the oven.
- Bake the empty skins for 10 minutes before adding any fillings. This helps remove moisture and allows them to get crispy.
- Return the filled skins to the oven for a second bake. Keep an eye on them; when the cheese is melted and bubbly, they’re ready!
Enjoy making your crispy, cheesy Potato Skin Bites!
How to Make Potato Skin Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potato Skins:
- 4 medium-sized russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Filling:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes to cook, with 45-60 minutes of baking time for the potatoes, making it a great option for a quick and tasty snack or appetizer!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Thoroughly wash the russet potatoes and pat them dry. Then, pierce each potato a few times with a fork. Rub them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Lay them on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
2. Scoop Out The Flesh:
Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully take them out of the oven and allow them to cool for a bit until they are manageable. Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, delicately scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch layer connected to the skin. You can reserve the scooped potato for another recipe or discard it.
3. Crisp Up the Skins:
Brush the inside and outside of the potato skins with a little olive oil. Place them back on the baking sheet, skin side down, and bake for another 10 minutes to make them crispy.
4. Prepare the Filling:
While the skins are in the oven, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once cooked, drain the bacon on paper towels and chop it into small pieces.
5. Fill the Potato Skins:
Take the crisp potato skins out of the oven. Now it’s time to fill them! Sprinkle a bit of shredded cheddar cheese into each skin, add some chopped bacon, and top with a pinch of chopped chives. Lightly season with salt and pepper.
6. Final Bake:
Return the filled potato skins to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on them to make sure they don’t burn!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After removing them from the oven, let the skins cool slightly. Top each one with a small dollop of sour cream and garnish with extra chives. Serve these tasty bites warm as an appetizer or snack, and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
Enjoy your crispy, cheesy Potato Skin Bites!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes! While russet potatoes are ideal for their sturdy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or even red potatoes. Just keep in mind that different potatoes may have slightly different baking times and flavor profiles.
Can I Make These Vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can skip the bacon and add other vegetables like sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers for flavor. You can also use crumbled tempeh or a plant-based bacon substitute for added texture.
How Do I Store Leftover Potato Skin Bites?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them for a quicker option.
Can I Freezer Potato Skin Bites?
Yes, you can! Assemble the potato skins and freeze them before the final baking step. Just arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
