Air Fryer Potato Skins with Cheddar and Bacon Recipe

Introduction

Air fryer potato skins are a crispy, cheesy snack that’s perfect for any occasion. With crispy skins, melted cheddar, and smoky bacon, they come together quickly and taste delicious every time.

Ingredients

• 4 Russet potatoes
• 2 teaspoons olive oil (plus more for brushing)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar
• Sour cream or ranch (for serving)
• Green onion (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees.
2. Step 2: Scrub the potatoes well and pat dry.
3. Step 3: Coat the potatoes in olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.
4. Step 4: Arrange the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 35-45 minutes, flipping halfway through, until a fork easily pierces them. Let cool for 10 minutes.
5. Step 5: Cut the potatoes in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh into a small bowl, leaving about 1/8 to 1/4 inch of potato along the skin. Save the flesh for another use.
6. Step 6: Brush the hollowed potato skins with olive oil and place skin side up in the air fryer. Cook at 400 degrees for 5 minutes, working in batches if needed.
7. Step 7: Flip the skins over and fill them with shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon.
8. Step 8: Cook in the air fryer at 400 degrees for 3 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
9. Step 9: Serve topped with a dollop of sour cream or ranch and sprinkle with chopped green onions.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crispiness, sprinkle the potato skins with a little paprika or garlic powder before cooking.
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
• Add chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the potato skins in a 400-degree oven instead.

Storage

Store leftover potato skins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees for 3-5 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the skins from becoming soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Russet potatoes are best for crispy skins, but you can use Yukon Gold or other starchy potatoes. The texture may vary slightly.

How do I make the potato skins crispier?

Brushing the skins with olive oil and cooking them skin side up in the air fryer helps. Avoid overcrowding the basket and flipping halfway during cooking.