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Crispy Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins – Daily Yum

There’s something undeniably comforting about potato skins. Crunchy, savoury, and loaded with toppings, they’re the perfect snack or party starter. Thanks to the modern marvel of the air fryer, you can create crispy, delicious loaded potato skins without the guilt of deep frying. In this article, we’ll explore how to make Crispy Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins that are sure to become a family favourite.

Why Choose Air Fryer Potato Skins?

Using an air fryer to prepare potato skins offers a range of benefits. Firstly, the air fryer circulates hot air around the food, allowing it to become crisp without excessive oil. This results in a healthier dish that doesn’t compromise on flavour. Additionally, air frying is quicker than traditional methods, making it an ideal choice for busy days or impromptu gatherings.

Ingredients

To whip up your Crispy Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 4 medium-sized russet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• 1 cup of shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favourite blend)
• ½ cup of cooked bacon bits
• ¼ cup of sour cream
• ¼ cup of spring onions, finely chopped
• Optional toppings: jalapeños, olives, guacamole, or any other favourite toppings

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel, and then pierce each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during cooking.

Step 2: Air Fry the Potatoes

Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (about 400°F). Lightly coat each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. This not only adds flavour but helps achieve that desired crispiness.

Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket and cook for approximately 35-40 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. Cooking times may vary depending on the size of the potatoes, so keep an eye on them.

Step 3: Create the Skins

Once cooked, carefully remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. When they’re cool enough to handle, slice each potato in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to gently scoop out some of the flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch border around the edges to form the skins.

Step 4: Load the Skins

Brush the insides of the potato skins with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Now comes the fun part! Begin by generously filling each skin with shredded cheese and bacon pieces.

Step 5: Air Fry Again

Return the loaded potato skins to the air fryer basket. Cook at 200°C (400°F) for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and the skins are crispy and golden.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the potato skins from the air fryer. Top each one with a dollop of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped spring onions, or any additional toppings you desire. Serve immediately, and watch them disappear!

Tips for the Best Loaded Potato Skins

• Choose the Right Potato: Russet potatoes are ideal for loaded skins due to their starchy texture and thick skin, which holds up well during cooking.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to customise your loaded potato skins with different toppings. BBQ chicken, sautéed mushrooms, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing can elevate your dish to new heights.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the potato skins in advance and air fry them just before serving for a quick and easy snack.

Conclusion

Crispy Air Fryer Loaded Potato Skins are a delightful treat that brings together the perfect combination of flavours and textures. Healthy, delicious, and easy to make, they are sure to please both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a night in, these loaded skins are a must-try. So grab your air fryer and get ready for a tasty adventure – you won’t be disappointed!