Potato Skins Recipe | Grilling

Name: Potato Skins Recipe | Grilling
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Yield: 0
Cuisine: American

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By AprilPublished Aug 9, 2023

Who doesn't love a delicious appetizer that's crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor?

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Prep: 30 min
Cook: 50 min
Total: 1 hr 20 min
Servings: 0

Method

Light a chimney 3/4 full of charcoal.
Prick the potatoes thoroughly with a fork.
Microwave the potatoes on high for 8 minutes, turning them over after 4 minutes.
When the charcoal is fully lit and covered in gray ash, pour the coals out and arrange them on either side of the charcoal grate, leaving the middle empty.
Transfer the potatoes to the grill, placing them in the middle of the grill and not over the coals.
Cover the grill and cook the potatoes for about 20 minutes, or until a paring knife glides easily through the flesh.
Remove the potatoes from the grill and let them cool.
Slice the potatoes in half lengthwise.
Cook the bacon in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat until brown and crisp, which takes about 8 minutes.
Transfer the bacon to a paper-towel-lined plate and set it aside.
When the potatoes are cool enough to handle, use a spoon to scoop out and discard the flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch layer of potato on the inside of each skin.
Brush the potatoes inside and out with melted butter and season with salt and pepper.
Move the potatoes back to the middle of the grill, cover, and let them cook until they turn light golden brown and crisp, approximately 7 minutes.
Sprinkle the potato skins evenly with cheddar cheese and

About this recipe

Who doesn't love a delicious appetizer that's crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor? Potato skins are a classic favorite, and when made on the grill, they take on a whole new level of deliciousness. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or looking for a tasty snack for game night, these grilled potato skins are sure to be a hit.

Why Grill Potato Skins?

Grilling potato skins adds a smoky, charred flavor that you just can't achieve with other cooking methods. The heat of the grill crisps up the potato skins perfectly, while the toppings melt and become ooey-gooey goodness. Plus, grilling gives you that wonderful outdoor cooking experience, making your potato skins even more enjoyable.

The Perfect Potato

When it comes to making the best grilled potato skins, choosing the right potato is crucial. Russet potatoes are the ideal choice because they have a high starch content and a thick skin that crisps up beautifully on the grill. Make sure to scrub the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris before cooking.

Preparing the Potatoes

Start by preheating your grill to medium heat. While the grill is heating up, carefully slice the potatoes in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh, leaving about a quarter-inch layer of potato attached to the skin. Save the scooped-out flesh for another recipe, like mashed potatoes or potato soup.

Toppings Galore

Now comes the fun part – choosing your toppings! You can get as creative as you like here. Classic options include shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and green onions. But why stop there? Consider adding diced tomatoes, jalapenos for a spicy kick, or even a dollop of sour cream or guacamole.

Grilling Time

Once your potatoes are prepped and your toppings are ready, it's time to grill. Place the potato skins on the preheated grill, skin side down, and cook for about 10 minutes. This will give them a chance to get nice and crispy. Then, flip them over and fill each skin with your chosen toppings. Grill for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

In Conclusion

Grilled potato skins are the ultimate appetizer for any occasion. With their crispy texture, gooey cheese, and endless topping possibilities, they're sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So fire up the grill, grab some potatoes, and get ready to enjoy this mouthwatering treat that will have everyone coming back for more.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I make potato skins in the oven instead of grilling them?: Absolutely! If you don't have access to a grill or prefer to use your oven, you can still make delicious potato skins. Simply follow the same steps for preparing the potatoes and adding the toppings, then bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
. Can I make vegetarian potato skins?: Definitely! Potato skins are incredibly versatile and can easily be made vegetarian-friendly. Simply omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon bits. Load up your skins with plenty of cheese, veggies, and your favorite vegetarian toppings.
. Can I prepare potato skins in advance?: Absolutely! If you're planning to serve potato skins at a gathering or party, you can prepare them in advance. After grilling, let the potato skins cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
. Can I freeze potato skins?: While it's possible to freeze potato skins, the texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. If you do choose to freeze them, make sure to let them cool completely after grilling, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to enjoy them, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat them in the oven until heated through.
. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?: Absolutely! Sweet potato skins make a delicious alternative to traditional potato skins. Follow the same steps for preparation and grilling, and enjoy the sweet and savory combination of flavors.
. Can I make potato skins on a charcoal grill?: Yes, you can! If you prefer cooking on a charcoal grill, simply light your charcoal and let it burn until you have a medium heat. Then, place the potato skins directly on the grill grates and follow the grilling instructions as mentioned earlier.
. Can I add other toppings to my potato skins?: Definitely! Potato skins are a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different toppings like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even pulled pork. Let your taste buds guide you and create your own unique potato skin masterpiece.
. Can I make potato skins without cheese?: Of course! While cheese is a classic topping for potato skins, you can skip it if you prefer. Load up your potato skins with other delicious toppings like salsa, black beans, and avocado for a flavorful and cheese-free option.