Ingredients
Method
Bake & Hollow the Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Poke each scrubbed Russet potato several times with a fork. Rub with a drop of olive oil and salt. Bake directly on the oven rack for 50 to 60 minutes until tender when pierced with a knife.
- Allow the potatoes to cool for 15 minutes until safe to handle. Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh leaving a sturdy 1/4-inch potato rim along the skin (save the scooped potato for mashed potatoes or potato soup).
Season & Crisp the Skins
- Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, sea salt, and black pepper.
- Generously brush both the inside hollows and outside skins of each potato boat with the seasoned butter mixture. Place cut-side down on the baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes.
- Flip the potato skins cut-side up and bake for another 8 to 10 minutes until the edges are deep golden, blistered, and audibly crispy.
Load, Melt & Garnish
- Fill each crispy skin cavity generously with shredded sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, then sprinkle the crisp crumbled smoky halal beef bacon bits on top.
- Return to the oven for 4 to 5 minutes (or broil on HIGH for 2 minutes) until the cheeses are completely melted, bubbly, and starting to brown.
- Transfer to a serving platter. Top each hot potato skin with a cool dollop of sour cream and a generous shower of sliced green onions and fresh chives. Serve piping hot!