Golden, crispy, and loaded with melty cheese and smoky bacon, these Crunchy Mini Potato Skins are the kind of appetizer that disappears within minutes. Each bite delivers that irresistible contrast—crisp potato edges, gooey cheddar, cool sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh chives for balance.

Perfect for game day, casual gatherings, or even as a fun weeknight snack, these mini potato skins are easy to prepare and even easier to love. They look impressive on a platter but come together with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Crunchy Mini Potato Skins
- Bite-sized and party-ready
- Crispy outside with fluffy centers
- Loaded with classic comfort flavors
- Easy to prep ahead of time
- Crowd-pleasing for both kids and adults
How Do You Get Mini Potato Skins Extra Crispy?
The secret is baking them twice. First, roast the baby potatoes until tender. Then gently smash them and return them to the oven with a drizzle of oil. That second bake creates those golden, crunchy edges that make this recipe truly irresistible. Using a hot oven and not overcrowding the pan also helps maximize crispiness.
Ingredients for the Crunchy Mini Potato Skins
Every ingredient plays a simple but important role in building flavor and texture.
Baby Potatoes
These create the perfect bite-sized base. Their thin skins crisp beautifully while the inside stays soft and fluffy.
Olive Oil
Helps the potatoes roast evenly and develop those golden, crunchy edges.
Salt
Enhances the natural flavor of the potatoes and balances the richness of the toppings.
Black Pepper
Adds subtle warmth and depth.
Cheddar Cheese
Melts into a rich, gooey layer that pairs perfectly with the crispy potatoes.
Cooked Bacon
Brings smoky, savory crunch that makes each bite satisfying.
Sour Cream
Adds cool creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the warm, crispy base.
Fresh Chives
Provide a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
How To Make the Crunchy Mini Potato Skins
Before you begin, preheat your oven and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Having everything ready makes the process smooth and easy.
Step 1: Roast the Potatoes
Place the baby potatoes on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast until fork-tender and lightly golden.
Step 2: Smash for Crispiness
Using the bottom of a glass, gently press each potato until slightly flattened. This increases the surface area, which means more crispy edges.
Step 3: Second Bake
Return the smashed potatoes to the oven and bake again until the edges turn deep golden and crispy.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bacon
Sprinkle shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon over each potato. Bake briefly until the cheese melts.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Top each mini potato skin with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh chives before serving.

Serving and Storing Crunchy Mini Potato Skins
This recipe serves about 6 people as an appetizer, depending on portion size.
Serve them warm straight from the oven for the best texture. They’re perfect on a game-day snack board or alongside other finger foods. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them in the oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the skins.
What to Serve With Crunchy Mini Potato Skins?
Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs
A hearty, cheesy option that pairs beautifully with crispy potatoes.
Taco Ranch Bites
For a bold, zesty addition to your appetizer spread.
Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes
Mini and flavorful—perfect for parties.
Creamy Irresistible Crack Dip
A rich and creamy dip that complements the crisp texture.
Air Fryer Steak Bites
Savory and protein-packed, making your snack table more satisfying.
Flaky Mile High Biscuits
Soft, buttery biscuits that balance the crunch of the potatoes.
Want More Appetizer Ideas?
If you love these Crunchy Mini Potato Skins, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
- Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs for a cheesy, savory bite.
- Taco Ranch Bites for a bold and zesty twist.
- Deep Dish Pizza Cupcakes for mini pizza lovers.
- Creamy Irresistible Crack Dip for the ultimate party dip.
- Air Fryer Steak Bites for a hearty appetizer option.
Save This Pin For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest appetizer board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add jalapeños for heat? Try a different cheese? I love seeing how you make these recipes your own.
Explore beautifully curated, flavor-packed dishes on Nora Nosh Recipes and discover your next favorite appetizer here:
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Crunchy Mini Potato Skins
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
If you’re looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer, these Crunchy Mini Potato Skins deliver big flavor in a small, irresistible bite. Crispy roasted baby potatoes are smashed and baked again until golden, then topped with melted cheddar, smoky bacon, cool sour cream, and fresh chives. They’re perfect for game day snacks, easy dinner sides, party food ideas, or even a fun weekend treat. This easy recipe comes together with simple ingredients and minimal prep, making it ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining. Whether you’re searching for quick appetizer ideas, comfort food favorites, or easy snack recipes, these mini loaded potato skins are guaranteed to be a hit at the table.
Ingredients
1 1/2 pounds baby potatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices cooked bacon crumbled
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons fresh chives chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place baby potatoes on the baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Roast for 25 to 30 minutes until fork-tender.
4. Remove from oven and gently smash each potato with the bottom of a glass until slightly flattened.
5. Return to oven and bake for another 15 to 20 minutes until edges are golden and crispy.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon evenly over each potato.
7. Bake for 5 minutes or until cheese is fully melted.
8. Remove from oven and top each with a dollop of sour cream and chopped fresh chives before serving.
Notes
For extra crispiness, make sure the potatoes are spaced apart on the baking sheet. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents those golden, crunchy edges from forming.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 4 pieces)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
