1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.
- Pat the potatoes dry with a paper towel.
- Prick each potato several times with a fork.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
2. Cook the Potatoes:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching.
- Air fry the potatoes for 35-40 minutes, turning them halfway through the cooking time, until they are tender and a fork can easily pierce through them.
- Remove the potatoes from the air fryer and let them cool until they are easy to handle.
3. Prepare the Potato Skins:
- Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
- Scoop out the insides of each potato half, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato on the skin. Save the scooped-out potato for another use, like mashed potatoes or potato soup.
- Lightly brush the inside of each potato skin with a bit more olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Crisp the Potato Skins:
- Place the potato skins back in the air fryer basket, skin side down.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5-7 minutes, until the edges start to get crispy.
5. Add the Toppings:
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly inside each potato skin.
- Top with crumbled bacon.
- Return the potato skins to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
- Remove the potato skins from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Top each potato skin with a dollop of sour cream.
- Sprinkle with sliced green onions.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- Even Crisping: Make sure the potato skins are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure they crisp up evenly.
- Save the Scooped Potato: The scooped-out potato can be used for other recipes, reducing waste and giving you more delicious options.
- Customize Toppings: Feel free to customize the toppings based on your preferences. Some ideas include adding jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of your favorite herbs.
Conclusion: Air Fryer Potato Skins are a perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors, making them an irresistible treat for any occasion. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, these potato skins will quickly become a favorite in your appetizer rotation. Enjoy the crunch and deliciousness of these air-fried delights!