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Air Fryer Potato Skins with Cheddar and Bacon Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 82 reviews
  • Author: Ivy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Potato Skins made with tender russet potatoes, melted sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, perfect for a quick appetizer or snack. These potato skins are easy to prepare using the air fryer, giving you a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the potato soft inside.


Ingredients

Potatoes

  • 4 small russet potatoes

For Cooking

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Toppings

  • 2/3 cup (75 grams) sharp shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup crumbled bacon

Optional Garnishes

  • chives or green onion
  • sour cream
  • ranch dressing
  • ketchup


Instructions

  1. Microwave Potatoes: Poke all sides of the potatoes with a fork and microwave them on high for 4-5 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Set aside and let them cool.
  2. Prepare Potato Boats: Cut the cooled baked potatoes in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the insides to create hollow potato skins, leaving a thin layer of potato on the skin.
  3. Brush with Oil: Lightly brush or rub the potato skins on all sides, including the inside, with olive oil to help them crisp up during air frying.
  4. Air Fry Potato Skins: Place the potato skins in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F (204°C) for 5-8 minutes until they begin to brown and become crispy.
  5. Add Toppings: Remove the basket from the air fryer. Sprinkle the potato skins evenly with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon bits.
  6. Melt Cheese: Return the potato skins to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 minutes or until the cheese has melted fully.
  7. Serve with Garnishes: Carefully remove the potato skins from the air fryer and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped chives or green onions and your choice of sour cream, ranch, or ketchup. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Notes

  • Microwaving the potatoes first reduces overall cook time when using the air fryer.
  • For extra crispy skins, you can air fry the potato skins a few extra minutes before adding cheese and bacon.
  • Customize toppings with jalapeños, green onions, or other favorite ingredients.
  • Use turkey bacon or omit bacon to make a vegetarian version.
  • Leftover potato skins can be refrigerated and reheated in the air fryer to maintain crispiness.