New Potato Skin
Crispy potato skins loaded with melted cheddar cheese and topped with bacon bits, served with tangy sour cream—perfect as an appetizer or party snack for cheese and potato lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil potatoes in jackets until done.
- Drain, cool, and halve potatoes.
- Scoop centers from potatoes, reserving pulp for another use.
- Salt shells.
- Stuff with cheese and top with bacon bits.
- Bake at 350°F until cheese is melted.
- Serve with sour cream.
- May be prepared ahead and frozen.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicy kick. You can also substitute the bacon bits with crumbled turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Make sure to let the potatoes cool completely before handling them to prevent burns. If you have leftover potato pulp, it can be used in dishes like Lumpy Dip or added to mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
These potato skins make an excellent appetizer or party snack. Serve them alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of chili for a heartier meal. They also pair beautifully with sour cream and chives. For a complete dinner, consider serving them with grilled meats or as a side dish to American recipes like Deluxe Meat Loaf.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover potato skins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as this may make the skins soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of New Potato Skin contains roughly 1037 calories, with 18g protein, 138g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (75% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 876mg per serving (38% of the Daily Value).
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 in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the potato skins ahead of time and freeze them before baking. Just assemble them, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and store in the freezer. When ready to bake, cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through.
What can I do with leftover potato pulp?
Leftover potato pulp can be mixed into other recipes. It's great for thickening soups or can be added to mashed potatoes for extra texture. You could also use it in a hearty breakfast hash or incorporate it into savory pancakes.
Can I use other toppings besides bacon?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. You could use sautéed vegetables, different types of cheese, or even chili for a heartier option. Fresh herbs like parsley or green onions also add a nice touch to the final dish.
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).