Crispy Garlic Potato Skins

Potato skins are a beloved appetizer that has made their way into the hearts and stomachs of food enthusiasts across the globe. These delightful morsels, often served at parties and gatherings, are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Among the various ways to prepare potato skins, the crispy garlic version stands out for its irresistible crunch and robust flavor. This recipe is simple and accessible, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Indulge in the crispy, savory delight of garlic potato skins with this easy recipe! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these versatile bites are baked to perfection with a golden crunch. Each skin is infused with aromatic garlic, topped with gooey melted cheese, and can be customized with your favorite toppings like bacon or jalapeños. Discover a crowd-pleasing appetizer that brings everyone together and adds a flavorful twist to your snack time!

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Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes

3 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup sour cream

¼ cup chopped fresh chives (for garnish)

Optional: ½ cup cooked bacon bits

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature while you prepare the potatoes.

Prepare the Potatoes: Rinse the russet potatoes under cool running water, scrubbing off any dirt. After washing, dry them thoroughly with a towel. Using a fork, pierce each potato several times, which allows steam to escape during the baking process, preventing them from bursting.

Bake the Potatoes: Arrange the potatoes on a baking sheet and place them in the oven. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender and can easily be pierced with a fork. Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for approximately 10 minutes.

Make the Garlic Oil: While the potatoes cool, heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or just until fragrant, ensuring not to let it burn. Once fragrant, take it off the heat and allow it to cool slightly.

Scoop the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut each potato in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to gently scoop out the inside, leaving about ¼ inch of potato on the skin. (Remember to save the scooped-out potato for another recipe, like creamy mashed potatoes!)

Season the Potato Skins: Generously brush the insides of the hollowed-out potato skins with the garlic oil mixture. Sprinkle each skin with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake the Skins: Place the potato skins skin-side down back on the baking sheet. Return them to the oven and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the skins are golden brown.

Add Cheese and Optional Ingredients: Remove the crispy potato skins from the oven. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon bits inside each skin. Return them to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Serve: Take the potato skins out of the oven and let them sit for a couple of minutes. Top each with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives for garnish. Serve warm to enjoy the crispy texture and delicious flavors of your garlic potato skins!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes | Serves 4-6