Loaded Airfryer Potato Skins

Name: Loaded Airfryer Potato Skins
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium russet potatoes; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste; Olive oil spray

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Recipes

I absolutely adore making Loaded Airfryer Potato Skins when I crave a crispy and cheesy snack. This recipe allows me to enjoy all the deliciousness of classic potato skins without the guilt of deep frying. Using the air fryer not only speeds up the cooking process but also helps achieve that perfect crunch while keeping the potatoes tender on the inside. Whether it’s for a game day treat or just a cozy night in, these potato skins are sure to impress anyone with their yummy toppings and delightful texture.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-17T13:58:19.126Z

When I first tried making Loaded Airfryer Potato Skins, I was blown away by how easy and satisfying it was! The air fryer ensured that the skins cooked evenly and became perfectly crispy. By using simple ingredients like cheese, bacon, and green onions, I could create a dish that felt indulgent without a lot of fuss. I found that parboiling the potatoes before air frying made them extra fluffy inside, striking the perfect balance with the crunchiness of the skin.

Another tip I discovered is to sprinkle some extra cheese and toppings during the last few minutes of cooking. This way, they become wonderfully melty and give your potato skins that irresistible look. These Loaded Airfryer Potato Skins quickly became a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing them with friends and family when they come over!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Crispy texture paired with creamy toppings
Quick and easy preparation in the air fryer
Customizable with your favorite toppings

Choosing the Right Potatoes

Selecting the right type of potatoes is crucial for achieving the perfect loaded potato skins. I recommend using medium russet potatoes because their starchy texture creates a fluffy interior while holding up well to toppings. Avoid waxy potatoes, like red or new potatoes, as they won’t crisp up as nicely and may fall apart. To test for freshness, opt for potatoes without any blemishes or sprouts for the best results.

When it comes to size, medium russets are perfect for fitting in the air fryer while allowing ample space for toppings. If you only find large russets, you can adjust your cooking time accordingly, adding a few extra minutes in the air fryer to ensure they cook through evenly. Regardless of size, ensure they are uniform for even cooking.

Perfecting the Air Frying Technique

The air fryer is a game changer when it comes to making crispy potato skins. After parboiling the potatoes, it's essential to let them cool for a few minutes before cutting; this prevents the skins from tearing. When air frying, I recommend lightly spraying the inside with olive oil spray, as this promotes even crisping and helps the skins become beautifully golden. Make sure to keep an eye on them during cooking to avoid over-browning.

For the best crispiness, try flipping the potato skins halfway through the air frying process. This ensures that all sides get that desirable crunch. Every air fryer is different, so you might need to adjust the time slightly based on your model; just look for that visual cue of deep golden crispness on the edges.

Ingredients

For Loaded Potato Skins

4 medium russet potatoes
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
1/4 cup sour cream
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Poke a few holes in each potato with a fork to allow steam to escape. Parboil them in salted water for about 10 minutes.

Air Fry the Potatoes

After parboiling, let the potatoes cool slightly, then cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out some of the flesh to create a skin to hold the toppings. Spray the insides with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Air fry the skins at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, until crispy.

Add Toppings

Remove the potato skins from the air fryer and fill each with shredded cheese and chopped bacon. Return them to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melty.

Serve

Top the loaded potato skins with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions. Enjoy your delicious Loaded Airfryer Potato Skins!

Pro Tips

For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms as toppings.

Ingredient Swaps and Variations

Feel free to customize your toppings based on personal preference or dietary needs. For a healthier version, consider using low-fat cheese or substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream. You can also swap out bacon for turkey bacon or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian alternative. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick, or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.

If you're preparing these for a crowd, think about setting up a loaded potato skin bar. Provide various toppings such as diced tomatoes, olives, or different cheeses to let your guests build their own. This interactive approach not only adds fun but also caters to different tastes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

These loaded potato skins are perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare the potato skins and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the toppings and air fry until hot and crispy. For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked skins without toppings. They can last in the freezer for up to two months.

To reheat frozen potato skins, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Then, air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes to regain that crispy texture. Keeping some of the toppings separate until reheating can also enhance the freshness and taste of your dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes work well for a different flavor profile, but adjust the cooking time slightly if they are smaller.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftover potato skins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make these potato skins ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potato skins in advance and air fry them just before serving for the best texture.

→ What other toppings can I use?

Feel free to get creative! You can use toppings like guacamole, salsa, jalapeños, or even different types of cheese.