Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with bacon, these air fryer potato skins are the ultimate appetizer or snack! Easy to make and so delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
4 medium-sized Russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
¼ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt, for serving
Optional: Chopped green onions, for garnish
Instructions
Prep the Potatoes: Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Dry with a paper towel. Use a fork to poke holes all over each potato. Rub each potato with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
First Round of Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for 40–50 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the center.
Let Cool: Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes until safe to handle.
Scoop Out the Centers: Cut the potatoes lengthwise and use a spoon to scoop out the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato attached to the skin to create a sturdy shell.
Prepare for Second Round of Air Frying: Brush the potato skins with a bit more olive oil and place them back in the air fryer basket. Cook for 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to crisp up the shells.
Add Toppings: Fill each potato skin with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon.
Second Round of Air Frying: Return the loaded potato skins to the air fryer and cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Garnish: Carefully remove the potato skins from the air fryer. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot with sour cream or Greek yogurt. Enjoy!
Notes
Choose Russets: Their sturdy skin and fluffy interior make them perfect for potato skins.
Scoop Gently: Leave about ¼ inch of potato flesh to keep the skins strong and intact.
Customize Toppings: Add jalapeños, sour cream, or even diced tomatoes for extra flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the potato skins in batches if needed for even crispiness.
Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.