Potato skins have long been a staple of American cuisine, especially when it comes to snacking during game days. Whether you’re watching a football game with friends, or just settling in for a movie night, these crispy, creamy, and savory bites are sure to please everyone. But why exactly are baked potato skins so irresistible? Let’s explore!

Crispy Texture

The key to a great potato skin is getting that perfect crispy texture. To achieve this, the potatoes are first baked until tender and then the inside is scooped out, leaving a thin layer of potato on the skin. The skins are then usually coated in oil and baked until crispy. The result is a crunchy exterior that pairs perfectly with the soft, creamy potato inside. We aren’t going to be using butter or oil but we’ll use light margarine to keep this recipe trim!

Loaded with Flavor

One of the reasons that baked potato skins are so popular is that they can be loaded with a variety of flavors. From bacon and cheese, to chili and sour cream, the possibilities are endless. These toppings not only add flavor, but also texture and variety to each bite. You can mix and match toppings to suit your personal tastes, or get creative and try something new.

Perfect for Sharing

Baked potato skins are the perfect snack to serve at a game day gathering. They’re easy to make, and everyone can customize their own skins to their liking. Plus, they’re bite-sized, which makes them easy to grab and pop into your mouth without any mess.

Healthy Option

While potato skins are often thought of as a junk food, they can actually be a healthy option. Potatoes are a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and baking them instead of frying reduces the amount of fat and calories.

In conclusion, baked potato skins are the ultimate game day treat. With their crispy texture, delicious toppings, and ability to be customized, it’s no wonder that they’re a crowd-pleaser. So, next time you’re hosting a game day gathering, be sure to include baked potato skins on the menu!

Ingredients

small russet potatoes

light margarine

salt

garlic powder

parsley

bacon bits

shredded cheddar (I use full fat, you can use reduced fat to get the calories lower!)

sour cream (optional)

chives (as garnish)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425F. Poke a few holes in each potato using a fork and bake directly on the rack for 40-45 minutes. Remove and let cool so you don’t burn your fingers!

Cut the potatoes longways and use a small spoon to scoop out some of the inside of the potatoes. I like to leave about 1/4th of an inch of the insides.

Combine your margarine, garlic powder, salt and parsley in a small bowl and melt in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Brush the outsides and inside of the potato with your melted margarine mixture.

Place the potatoes face down on a baking tray and bake for an additional 15 minutes, alternatively you can put them face down in the air fryer for 6-8 minutes.

Remove from oven or air fryer, Fill each potato with bacon and shredded cheese, place back in the air fryer or oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.

Optionally top with chives and sour cream as garnish.

What are the calories / macros?

Each potato skin is 91 calories using small russet potatoes, If you use larger potatoes or more fillings these will be higher calories.

The macros are 9g carbs, 5g fat, 3g protein