Bacon And Tomato Potato Skins
Crispy potato skins topped with bacon, tomato, green onion, and melted Cheddar cheese, perfect as an appetizer or snack for gatherings and casual bites.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrub and bake the potatoes until tender; let cool.
- Halve each potato lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell.
- Combine cooking oil, chili powder, and hot pepper sauce; brush the insides of the potato shells with this mixture.
- Cut the potato halves in half lengthwise to create quarters.
- Place the potato quarters on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle the potato quarters with chopped Canadian bacon, chopped tomato, and chopped green onion.
- Top each with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 450°F for 10 to 12 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot with sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a healthier twist, substitute the Canadian bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a bit more heat, consider adding jalapeños or using pepper jack cheese instead of Cheddar. To make the prep easier, you can microwave the potatoes until tender, similar to how you would prepare for dishes like Stuffed Peppers With Hamburger.
Serving Suggestions
These bacon and tomato potato skins make a great appetizer or snack, especially when paired with a side of sour cream or guacamole. They can also be served as a main dish alongside a fresh salad or as part of a game day spread with other appetizers like Delda'S Dip. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for an added burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover potato skins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through, which will help keep the skin crispy. Avoid using the microwave as it may make the skins soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon And Tomato Potato Skins contains roughly 298 calories, with 7g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 28g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these potato skins ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato shells and fill them with toppings in advance. Assemble them and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. Just pop them in the oven when you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of Cheddar cheese?
If you're not a fan of Cheddar, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a blend of cheeses. For a bolder flavor, consider blue cheese or feta as alternatives.
How can I make these potato skins spicier?
To increase the heat level, add more chili powder or incorporate diced jalapeños into the filling. You can also use a spicier hot pepper sauce or top them with a drizzle of sriracha before serving for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).