Ham and Pickle Potato Skins

Hey there, fellow food lovers! I’m super excited to share one of my absolute favorite snack recipes with you: Ham and Pickle Potato Skins! These aren’t your average potato skins; they’re packed with flavor, easy to make, and totally customizable. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll be hooked!

Why You’ll Love These Potato Skins

• Flavor Explosion: The combination of savory ham, tangy dill pickles, creamy cheese, and zesty ranch is simply irresistible2.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can have these ready in no time1.
• Customizable: Feel free to swap out ingredients and add your own personal touch2.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a game-day gathering, a casual get-together, or just a snack for yourself, these potato skins are always a hit3.

Quick Facts

• Prep Time: 15 minutes2
• Cook Time: 25 minutes12
• Serving Size: 6 potato skins2

Ingredients

• 6 medium Russet potatoes2
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil2
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt2
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted2
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder2
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder2
• 1 ½ cups (169.5 g) mozzarella cheese, finely shredded, divided2
• 1 cup (135 g) thick-cut deli ham, diced, divided2

Topping

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, room temperature2
• ½ cup (115 g) sour cream2
• 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning2
• 1 tablespoon green onions, diced2
• 1 cup dill pickles, diced, divided2

Let’s Get Cooking!

1. Prep the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes and pat them dry. Rub them with vegetable oil and sprinkle with kosher salt2.
2. Bake the Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 1 hour, or until they are soft3.
3. Cool and Scoop: Let the potatoes cool slightly, then cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the insides, leaving a ¼ inch border of potato2.
4. Make Garlic Onion Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder2.
5. Crisp the Skins: Brush the butter mixture over the insides and outsides of the potato halves. Transfer the skins to a foil-lined baking sheet and return to the oven to bake for 10 minutes. Flip them and bake for an additional 10 minutes2.
6. Add Ham and Cheese: Top each potato skin evenly with shredded mozzarella cheese and diced ham. Bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted2.
7. Make the Topping: While the potatoes are baking, prepare the topping. In a medium bowl add the cream cheese, sour cream, ranch seasoning, and green onions. Mix together until well combined. Set aside2.
8. Top and Serve: Top the baked potato skins with a dollop of the topping and diced pickles. Serve immediately and enjoy2!

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer or snack for parties3.
• Pair with a salad for a light lunch or dinner3.
• Add a side of sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping1.

Tips for Customization

• Cheese: Try using cheddar, Colby-Jack, or a blend of your favorite cheeses3.
• Meat: Use shredded chicken, bacon, or ground beef instead of ham2.
• Spices: Add a dash of hot sauce, paprika, or garlic powder for extra flavor2.
• Veggies: Add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or jalapeños for a colorful twist2.
• Vegan: Use vegan cheese, plant-based bacon, and a dairy-free sour cream alternative to make this recipe vegan7.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?Yes, you can! Bake the potatoes and prepare the filling ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and assemble just before baking1.How do I store leftovers?Store leftover potato skins in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave2.Can I freeze these?I don’t recommend freezing these, as the texture of the potatoes and toppings may change2.Can I make these in an air fryer?Yes! Air fry the skins at 400°F (200°C) for 8 minutes, flipping them halfway through, or until they reach your desired crispiness. Top with cheese and ham, and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted. Then add the topping and pickles2.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Estimated)

• Calories: 350-450
• Protein: 15-20g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 30-40g

Note: Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.