Super Bowl Loaded Potato Skins

Name: Super Bowl Loaded Potato Skins
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium russet potatoes; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon; 1/2 cup sour cream; 2 tablespoons chopped chives

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I can't imagine a Super Bowl party without these Loaded Potato Skins. They combine crispy potato shells with a medley of cheesy, savory toppings that are simply irresistible. It’s one of my favorite finger foods, and I've perfected this recipe over the years to ensure each bite is packed with flavor. Best of all, they're super easy to make, so I can focus on enjoying the game with friends rather than spending all day in the kitchen.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:37:12.497Z

When I first experimented with these Super Bowl Loaded Potato Skins, I was on a quest for the ultimate game-day snack. I started by baking the potatoes until they were crisp and fluffy inside. The secret is to use a blend of cheeses and crispy bacon to create that perfect combination of flavors. I found that adding a touch of sour cream on top elevates the taste to new heights.

Each time I serve them, they disappear fast! Initially, I made a smaller batch, but now I always double the recipe because my friends can’t seem to get enough. I've also learned that garnishing with chives adds a fresh component that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Crispy potato skins loaded with cheesy goodness
Perfect blend of savory toppings for ultimate flavor
Great for sharing at any party or gathering

      

Mastering the Perfect Texture

Achieving the ideal texture for your potato skins is crucial for the overall bite. After baking the potatoes, the insides should be fluffy yet firm enough to hold their shape when scooped out. Use a small spoon or melon baller to remove the flesh, but avoid scraping too deep as a thicker border helps maintain a crispy exterior. Just ensure you don't leave too much potato behind, as it can lead to a soggy skin when baked again.

For the best crunch, brush the insides with olive oil, which allows them to crisp up nicely. If you prefer a richer flavor, try using melted butter instead of olive oil. Additionally, be sure to bake the potato skins cut side down during the second bake. This helps achieve that golden, crispy texture that's essential to this finger food.

Substitutions and Variations

While cheddar cheese is a classic choice for these loaded potato skins, feel free to experiment with your favorite cheeses. Pepper jack or smoked gouda can add a delightful kick and depth of flavor. If you want to make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, consider substituting the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or crispy fried onions for a savory crunch without the meat.

Chives provide a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the skins beautifully, but you can also use green onions or even cilantro for a different twist. For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce on top before serving. The flexibility of this recipe allows for personal touches that can elevate your dish!

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're prepping for a party, you can bake the potatoes and prepare the skins a day in advance. After scooping out the flesh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply load the fillings and bake as instructed. This not only saves time but also allows you to focus on enjoying the game with minimal last-minute stress.

Leftover potato skins can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the skins soft instead of retaining their desired crunch.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare your Loaded Potato Skins:

For the Potato Skins

4 medium russet potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons chopped chives

Make sure to have all of your ingredients ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Loaded Potato Skins:

Bake the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes under cold water, then dry them. Prick each potato several times with a fork, rub with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt.

Bake directly on the oven rack for 45-60 minutes until fork-tender.

Prepare the Skins

Let the potatoes cool slightly, then cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out some of the flesh, leaving a small border to help maintain the structure. Brush the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.

Load and Bake Again

Fill each potato skin with shredded cheese and crumbled bacon. Place them back in the oven on a baking sheet and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove the potato skins from the oven and let cool slightly. Top each with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chives before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Loaded Potato Skins with your favorite dipping sauces!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding jalapeños or sliced green onions on top before baking. You can also experiment with different types of cheese for variety.

Topping Ideas

While the classic combination of cheese and bacon is unbeatable, feel free to get creative with toppings. Consider adding a dollop of guacamole or some spicy salsa for a twist on flavors. For an ultimate loaded experience, top with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or even a sprinkle of taco seasoning before adding the sour cream to create a Tex-Mex-inspired dish that will have everyone reaching for more.

For a gourmet touch, swap out traditional toppings for ingredients like pulled pork or buffalo chicken. This can turn your potato skins into a hearty meal option instead of just an appetizer. Just ensure that any toppings you choose are cooked and flavorful; the perfect companion to a crispy potato skin.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your potato skins are not as crispy as you'd like, double-check the baking process. Ensure the insides are liberally brushed with oil and consider increasing the oven temperature slightly during the second bake to achieve that golden crisp. Additionally, placing them on a preheated baking sheet can give them a faster crunch, so they bake evenly and thoroughly.

Another common issue is the skins breaking when scooping out the potato flesh. If this occurs, your potatoes might have been overcooked initially. In the future, monitor them closely during the baking process and perform the fork-test to ensure they’re just fork-tender without losing their structure.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare these in advance?

Yes, you can bake the potatoes in advance and load them up just before your guests arrive. Bake for a few extra minutes to heat through.

→ How can I make these vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon and add more vegetables such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or black beans for added flavor and texture.

→ What dipping sauces go well with Loaded Potato Skins?

Sour cream, guacamole, or even a spicy ranch dressing pair perfectly with these potato skins.

→ Can I freeze leftover potato skins?

Yes! Place them in an airtight container and freeze. When ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen until heated through.