These Air Fryer Potato Skins are crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and loaded with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh chives. They’re perfect as an appetizer, game-day snack, or easy side dish.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions
For Serving
- Sour cream
- Ranch dressing (optional)
- Salsa (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the potatoes: Bake the potatoes in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 45–60 minutes, or microwave them until tender. Let them cool enough to handle.
- Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch (6 mm) of potato attached to the skin. (Save the scooped potato for mashed potatoes or soup.)
- Brush both the inside and outside of the potato skins with olive oil.
- Season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Preheat the Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Place the potato skins skin-side down in the Air Fryer basket.
- Air fry for 5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3–5 minutes, until the edges are golden and crispy.
- Fill each skin with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Return to the Air Fryer and cook for 2–3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions and serve immediately with sour cream, ranch, or salsa.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–13 minutes (after the potatoes are cooked)
- Total Time: About 25–30 minutes (plus the initial potato cooking time)
Tips
- Russet potatoes work best because their skins become extra crispy.
- For even crispier skins, chill the cooked potatoes for 30–60 minutes before scooping and air frying.
- Try different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella.
- Add toppings such as diced jalapeños, pulled pork, taco meat, or broccoli for delicious variations.
These crispy Air Fryer Potato Skins are sure to be a crowd favorite. Enjoy