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How to Make Loaded Air Fryer Potato Skins

Potato skins are a classic snack that are beloved by many for their crispy texture and delicious toppings. With the rise of air fryers, preparing this indulgent treat has become easier and healthier than ever. Using an air fryer gives you the satisfying crispiness of traditional deep frying but with significantly less oil. In this article, you’ll discover how to make loaded air fryer potato skins that are perfect for sharing or enjoying all on your own.

Ingredients

To get started, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Potato Skins:

• 4 medium-sized russet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Topping:

• 100g (about 3.5 oz) cooked bacon, crumbled
• 100g (about 3.5 oz) grated cheese (cheddar or a blend of your choice)
• 2 spring onions, sliced
• Sour cream, for serving
• Optional: Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Equipment Needed

• Air fryer
• Baking tray or microwave (optional for pre-cooking potatoes)
• Sharp knife
• Spoon for scooping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape while cooking.

Cooking the Potatoes

You can choose to bake the potatoes in your oven or use the microwave for quicker results.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Rub the potatoes with a little oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

• Microwave Method: Place the pricked potatoes in the microwave and cook on high for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through. Check for doneness by piercing with a fork; they should be soft inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Skins

Once the potatoes are cooked and cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out a portion of the flesh, leaving about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) of potato inside to create a sturdy skin.

Step 3: Season and Cook

Drizzle olive oil over the skin side of the potato halves, and season with salt and pepper. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F).

Carefully place the potato skins in the air fryer basket, skin side up, and cook for about 10-15 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy. You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 4: Load the Skins

Once your potato skins are crispy, take them out of the air fryer. Sprinkle a generous amount of crumbled bacon and grated cheese into each skin. Return the loaded skins to the air fryer for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove the potato skins from the air fryer and top them with sliced spring onions. Serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream on the side and sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Loaded Potato Skins

1. Potato Selection: Russet potatoes are ideal due to their sturdy skin and fluffy interior. However, you can experiment with other types of potatoes for different flavours and textures.

2. Topping Variations: Get creative with your toppings! Try adding jalapeños for a spicy kick, or switch up the cheese for different flavours.

3. Make Them Ahead: If you want to prepare ahead, you can scoop out the potatoes and load them with toppings in advance. Just pop them in the air fryer when you’re ready to eat.

4. Storage: Leftover loaded potato skins can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat them in the air fryer for best results.

Conclusion

Making loaded air fryer potato skins is a straightforward and delightful way to enjoy a comforting snack or appetiser. With the air fryer’s ability to create a crispy exterior with minimal oil, these potato skins are not only delicious but also a healthier option than their deep-fried counterparts. Perfect for game nights, parties, or just a casual evening in, these loaded delights are sure to impress. Enjoy!

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