how do you make loaded potato skins

Loaded potato skins are a delicious and comforting appetizer or side dish that can be served at any time of the day. They are made by scooping out the flesh of a baked potato and filling the skin with a variety of toppings, such as cheese, bacon, sour cream, and chives. They are easy to make and are sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients

The ingredients for loaded potato skins vary depending on personal taste and preference, but here are some of the most commonly used ingredients:

• 6 large baking potatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh chives
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Here's how you can make your own delicious loaded potato skins:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Wash and scrub the potatoes and pat them dry.
2. Poke several holes in each potato with a fork. This will allow steam to escape while they bake.
3. Bake the potatoes on a baking sheet for about an hour, or until they are tender and cooked through. You can test this by inserting a fork into the potatoes; if it goes in easily, they are done.
4. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
5. Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato in the skin.
6. Place the potato skins back onto the baking sheet and sprinkle them with salt and pepper.
7. Sprinkle the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon over each potato skin, and then place them back in the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove the potato skins from the oven and dollop a spoonful of sour cream onto each one.
9. Garnish with chopped chives before serving.

Variations

One of the best things about loaded potato skins is that there are so many variations you can try. You can experiment with different cheeses, meats, vegetables, or sauces. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack cheese to add a little spice.
• Use cooked ground beef or shredded chicken in place of bacon to create a heartier dish.
• Add sautéed mushrooms, onions, or bell peppers to add some extra flavor.
• Top with guacamole, salsa, or diced tomatoes for a Mexican-style twist.

Conclusion

Loaded potato skins are a crowd-pleasing appetizer that are sure to impress your guests. They are easy to make, customizable, and delicious. So next time you're in the mood for a comforting, savory snack, give this recipe a try.