Imagine biting into a crispy, golden potato skin loaded with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a tantalizing Hidden Valley Ranch twist that will have everyone at your party begging for more! These aren't just any potato skins - they're a flavor explosion that transforms an ordinary appetizer into a mouthwatering sensation that'll make you the ultimate party hero. Whether you're hosting game night, a family gathering, or just craving a delicious snack, these Hidden Valley Potato Skins are about to become your new culinary obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 skins
Ingredients
- 6 medium russet potatoes
- 1 package Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your potato skins cook evenly and become crispy.
- Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- Using a fork, poke several holes in each potato. This allows steam to escape while they bake, preventing them from bursting in the oven.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of the potatoes.
- Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for about 10 minutes, or until they are cool enough to handle.
- While the potatoes are cooling, prepare the Hidden Valley Ranch dressing mix according to the package instructions, usually by mixing it with sour cream.
- Cut each potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out some of the flesh from the inside of each half, leaving a thin layer of potato to create a sturdy skin.
- Brush the insides of the potato halves with a little bit of olive oil or melted butter, and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the potato halves skin-side down on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the skins are crispy.
- Remove the potato skins from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over each skin.
- Return the potato skins to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Once the cheese has melted, remove the potato skins from the oven. Top each skin with chopped green onions.
- Serve the potato skins warm with the prepared Hidden Valley Ranch dressing on the side for dipping, and enjoy your delicious Hidden Valley Potato Skins!
Tips
- Choose medium-sized russet potatoes for the best texture and consistent sizing
- Make sure to thoroughly dry potatoes after washing to ensure maximum crispiness
- Don't skip poking holes in the potatoes - this prevents potential potato explosions in your oven!
- For extra crispy skins, brush with olive oil before the second baking
- Let potatoes cool slightly before scooping to make handling easier
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting performance
- Watch your cheese closely during the final bake to prevent burning
- Serve immediately for the ultimate crispy, cheesy experience
- Prepare Ranch dressing mix just before serving to maintain freshness
- These potato skins can be partially prepared in advance and finished right before serving
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
