Loaded BBQ Potato Skins
These Loaded BBQ Potato Skins are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with melted cheese, smoky bacon, and fresh toppings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, game night, or family gathering, these savory bites are guaranteed to disappear quickly. Don’t be surprised if they never make it to the party!
Ingredients
For the Potato Skins
4 large russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Filling
200 g (7 oz) shredded cheddar cheese
150 g (5 oz) cooked bacon, crumbled
3 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
For Serving
Sour cream
Barbecue sauce
Ranch dressing (optional)
Optional Additions
Diced jalapeños
Cooked shredded chicken
Pulled pork
Smoked sausage slices
Caramelized onions
Diced tomatoes
Corn kernels
Avocado slices
Crumbled feta or blue cheese
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry.
3. Rub each potato with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until tender.
5. Allow the potatoes to cool slightly, then cut each in half lengthwise.
6. Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about ½ cm (¼ inch) attached to the skin.
7. Brush the potato skins lightly with olive oil and place them skin-side down on a baking tray.
8. Bake for 10 minutes, then flip and bake for another 5 minutes until crispy.
9. Fill each potato skin with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
10. Return to the oven for 5–7 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Garnish with green onions and fresh parsley.
12. Serve warm with sour cream, barbecue sauce, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Serving Suggestions
These loaded potato skins pair wonderfully with:
Grilled burgers
Barbecue ribs
Grilled chicken
Fresh coleslaw
Garden salad
Corn on the cob
Pickles
Crispy, cheesy, and packed with smoky flavor, these Loaded BBQ Potato Skins are the perfect appetizer or party snack. Easy to customize and even easier to enjoy, they’re sure to become a favorite at every gathering.