If you’re craving a snack or appetizer that’s crispy, cheesy, and delicious but still light on calories, Air Fryer Potato Skins are the way to go! These potato skins are perfectly crisped up in the air fryer, which means you get all the crunch of traditional fried potato skins without the excess oil and calories. With just a few ingredients, they’re quick to make, customizable, and sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re serving them as a game-day snack, a fun appetizer, or a simple side dish, these air fryer potato skins will definitely hit the spot.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium Russet potatoes
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or cooking spray)
- 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cooked bacon bits (optional, for topping)
- 1/4 cup green onions (sliced, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub the Russet potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt. Pierce the potatoes several times with a fork, then microwave them for about 5-7 minutes or until they are partially cooked but not fully soft. Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30-40 minutes, but microwaving speeds up the process.
- Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut each potato in half lengthwise. Scoop out the insides, leaving about 1/4-inch of potato around the edges (you can save the scooped-out potato for mashed potatoes or another recipe).
- Season the Potato Skins:
- Lightly brush the potato skins with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the air fryer.
- Season the potato skins with salt and pepper to taste.
- Air Fry the Potato Skins:
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the potato skins in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they don’t overlap (you may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer).
- Air fry the potato skins for about 8-10 minutes, or until the skins are golden and crispy. Flip the skins halfway through cooking to ensure they crisp evenly on both sides.
- Add the Toppings:
- Once the potato skins are crispy and golden, remove them from the air fryer. Sprinkle each skin with a little shredded cheese and, if using, some cooked bacon bits.
- Return the potato skins to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Serve:
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the potato skins from the air fryer and garnish with sliced green onions.
- Serve with a side of sour cream for dipping, if desired.
Tips:
- Add-Ins: Feel free to mix things up by adding extra toppings like chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick, or a sprinkle of garlic powder for more flavor. You can also make them vegetarian by skipping the bacon and adding sautéed mushrooms or other veggies.
- Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, you can skip the cheese or use a fat-free or dairy-free alternative. You can also reduce the amount of oil used or opt for a low-calorie cooking spray.
- Leftovers: Leftover potato skins can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to get them crispy again.
Nutrition (per serving, 2 potato skins):
- Calories: ~150 kcal
- Protein: ~5g
- Fat: ~7g
- Carbs: ~20g
- Fiber: ~3g
- WW Points: 4 points (depends on the toppings and amount of oil used)
These Air Fryer Potato Skins are a healthier version of the classic appetizer, providing all the flavor with fewer calories and less fat. The air fryer gives them that irresistible crispy texture without the need for deep frying, making them the perfect choice for anyone who loves potato skins but wants to enjoy them in a lighter way. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or pairing them with your favorite dip or meal, these crispy, cheesy potato skins are sure to be a hit!
