Baked Cheddar Jalapeño Potato Skins

To craft the perfect Cheesy Spicy Potato Poppers, it’s essential to understand the key ingredients that contribute to this dish's deliciousness. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring that the final product is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Cheesy Spicy Potato Poppers! These delightful treats combine the creamy richness of sharp cheddar cheese with the fiery kick of jalapeños, creating a mouthwatering snack perfect for parties or cozy movie nights. Learn how to prepare russet potatoes, craft a delicious filling, and achieve that perfect golden-brown crust. Serve with sour cream and garnished with fresh cilantro for an elevated touch. Make these poppers a favorite in your recipe collection!

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Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes

1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

½ cup crumbled cooked bacon (optional)

2 jalapeños, finely diced (seeds removed for less heat)

½ cup sour cream

¼ cup green onions, chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Prepare Potatoes: Scrub the russet potatoes under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a paper towel. Prick them all over with a fork and rub olive oil on each potato. Sprinkle with salt.

Bake Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack (or on a baking sheet) and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Cool and Slice: Once baked, let the potatoes cool for about 10 minutes. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out some of the flesh, leaving about ¼ inch of potato on the skin to hold its shape.

Prepare Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the scooped-out potato, ½ cup of the cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon (if using), diced jalapeños, sour cream, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Fill Potato Skins: Spoon the filling back into each hollowed potato skin, packing them generously.

Add Cheese Topping: Top each stuffed potato skin with the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese.

Bake Again: Place the filled potato skins back in the oven on a baking sheet. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the skins are crispy.

Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove them from the oven, let them cool slightly, then garnish with fresh cilantro if desired. Serve warm with additional sour cream on the side.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 1 hr 20 mins | 8 servings