About this recipe

Crispy, golden potato skins piled high with melted cheddar, smoky bacon, and cool sour cream — a classic American appetizer that's been a crowd-pleaser for decades. Baked twice for maximum crispiness, these are the ultimate game-day snack or party starter that everyone devours.

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to ![400°F]. Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water and pat them dry — dry skin is key to crispiness. Pierce each russet potato 8–10 times all over with a fork.

2. 2

   Rub each russet potato all over with olive oil and sprinkle generously with kosher salt. Place directly on the oven rack (or on a baking sheet) and bake for 50–60 minutes, until the skins are firm and a fork slides easily into the center. The internal temperature should reach about %[205°F].

3. 3

   While the russet potatoes bake, cook the bacon in a skillet over ^[medium heat] until crispy, about 8–10 minutes. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, let cool, then crumble into small pieces. Set aside.

4. 4

   Remove the russet potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 10 minutes — they'll be very hot inside. Once cool enough to handle, slice each russet potato in half lengthwise.

5. 5

   Using a spoon, scoop out the russet potato flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell of russet potato all the way around. Don't scoop too thin — you need the shell sturdy enough to hold the toppings. Save the scooped russet potato flesh for mashed potatoes or another use.

6. 6

   In a small mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Brush this mixture generously over both the inside and outside of each russet potato skin.

7. 7

   Arrange the russet potato skins cut-side down on a baking sheet. Return to the ![400°F] oven and bake for 10 minutes, then flip them cut-side up and bake for another 5 minutes. The skins should look golden and feel crisp.

8. 8

   Remove the skins from the oven and switch the oven to ^[broil (high)]. Fill each skin generously with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, then top with crumbled bacon. Make sure every skin gets a good even layer of both.

9. 9

   Broil the loaded skins on the top rack for 2–3 minutes, watching closely, until the sharp cheddar cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and starting to get golden spots. Don't walk away — broilers work fast!

10. 10

    Transfer to a serving platter. Top each skin with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced green onions. Add chives and a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper if desired. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.