Potato Skins

Ingredients

• 8 small baking potatoes
• to taste vegetable oil
• to taste garlic salt
• 2 cups cheddar cheese
• 12 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons chives

Steps

1. Scrub the potatoes.
2. Rub the skins with oil.
3. Prick each potato several times with a fork.
4. Bake the potatoes at 400°F for 30–45 minutes or until potatoes are done.
5. Allow the potatoes to cool to touch.
6. Cut the top third off each potato.
7. Discard the tops.
8. Carefully scoop out the pulp, leaving about ⅛ inch-thick shells.
9. Reserve the potato pulp for other uses.
10. Fry the potato skins in hot oil (375°F) for 3–4 minutes or until browned.
11. Remove the potato skins and drain on paper towels.
12. Place the potato skins, cut side up, on an ungreased baking sheet.
13. Sprinkle with garlic salt and cheddar cheese.
14. Broil 6 inches from heat for 30 seconds or until the cheese melts.
15. Top the potato skins with bacon if using them and 1 tablespoon chives.
16. Press the green chiles between paper towels to remove excess moisture.
17. Combine the chilies, sour cream and red pepper in a small bowl.
18. Stir well.
19. Top with the remaining 1 tablespoon chives.
20. Serve with the potato skins.