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Cheesy Baked Potato Skins - Crispy, Comforting, and Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 6 medium russet potatoes (scrubbed and dried)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for brushing)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided, to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a subtle smoky note)
  • 1 1/2 to 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheddar-jack blend)
  • 4 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled; optional)
  • 1/3 cup sour cream
  • 2–3 green onions (thinly sliced)
  • Fresh chives (optional, for garnish)
  • Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

Method
 

  1. Preheat and prep: Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup. Prick each potato a few times with a fork.
  2. Roast the potatoes: Rub potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil and sprinkle lightly with salt. Place on the baking sheet and roast for 50–60 minutes, turning once, until skins are crisp and a knife slides in easily.
  3. Cool slightly: Let potatoes cool for 10–15 minutes so they’re easier to handle. Keep the oven on.
  4. Halve and scoop: Cut each potato lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/4 inch attached to the skin. Save the scooped potato for another use (mashed potatoes or a quick hash).
  5. Season the shells: In a small bowl, mix a couple tablespoons of olive oil with the garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Brush this mixture over the insides and outsides of the potato skins.
  6. Crisp the skins: Place skins cut-side down on the baking sheet. Bake for 8–10 minutes to crisp. Flip them cut-side up and bake another 5 minutes. This step is key for that sturdy, crunchy bite.
  7. Add the cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar evenly into each shell. Don’t overfill—just a generous layer that will melt nicely without spilling over.
  8. Melt and finish: Bake for 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbling at the edges. If you want a little char, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely.
  9. Top and serve: Remove from the oven and immediately add crumbled bacon (if using). Finish with sour cream, green onions, and chives. Add a dash of hot sauce if you like heat. Serve hot.