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Crispy Loaded Bacon Ranch Potato Skins

crispy loaded bacon ranch potato skins - featured image

These crispy loaded bacon ranch potato skins combine smoky bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and tangy ranch dressing for a perfect snack that’s quick and easy to make. Double baking ensures a crispy shell with melty, flavorful filling.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 68 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 green onions, sliced thin
  • Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes and pat dry. Pierce each potato with a fork several times. Place directly on oven rack and bake 45-50 minutes until tender.
  2. Cool potatoes enough to handle. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Scoop out insides with a spoon or melon baller, leaving about ¼ inch of potato attached to skin.
  3. Brush potato skins lightly with olive oil on both sides. Season with salt and pepper. Place skin-side down on baking sheet or wire rack. Bake 15 minutes until edges are golden and crisp.
  4. In a bowl, mix shredded cheddar cheese with crumbled bacon (reserve some bacon for topping). Fill each potato skin with cheese-bacon mixture, packing slightly.
  5. Bake again at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Meanwhile, mix sour cream with ranch seasoning until smooth.
  6. Remove skins from oven. Drizzle or dollop with ranch sour cream mixture. Sprinkle with sliced green onions and reserved bacon. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Double baking is essential for crispy skins. Use a wire rack if possible to keep bottoms crisp. Watch cheese closely during second bake to avoid burning. For dairy-free, substitute sour cream and cheese with vegan alternatives. Broil 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness but watch carefully.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato skins, bacon, ranch, cheddar cheese, crispy snack, appetizer, game day food, easy recipe