Get ready to indulge in a flavor explosion with these BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Sweet Potato Skins! This delectable dish combines the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with the bold and savory flavors of smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a tasty snack, these loaded skins are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more.

The History and Health Benefits of Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes have a rich history dating back thousands of years, with origins in Central and South America. These versatile root vegetables have long been celebrated for their exceptional nutritional profile and have become a staple in cuisines around the world. Unlike their starchier white potato counterparts, sweet potatoes are packed with an array of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that make them a healthier choice.

Loaded with beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium, sweet potatoes offer a range of health benefits. They can help support immune function, improve digestion, and even promote healthy skin. Plus, their natural sweetness means you can indulge in a delicious treat without the guilt.

Ingredients for Irresistible BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Sweet Potato Skins

To create these mouthwatering BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Sweet Potato Skins, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:

4 large sweet potatoes – The star of the show, providing a delicious base for all the toppings.
4 tablespoons olive oil – Used to coat the sweet potatoes before baking, helping them achieve a beautifully crisp skin.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – Adds a savory depth of flavor to the potatoes.
1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the natural sweetness of the potatoes.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Provides a subtle kick of heat to balance the sweetness.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melted over the top, creating a gooey, cheesy layer.
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled – Provides a delightful smoky and salty crunch.
1/4 cup barbecue sauce – Lends a bold, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweet potatoes.
1/4 cup ranch dressing – Adds a creamy, cool contrast to the other bold flavors.
2 tablespoons chopped green onions – Offers a fresh, aromatic garnish to the loaded skins.

Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, bacon types (such as turkey bacon for a healthier option), or even dairy-free substitutes to cater to various dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Instructions for BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Sweet Potato Skins

Ready to bring these irresistible BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Sweet Potato Skins to life? Follow these simple steps:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving the perfect crispy exterior on the sweet potato skins.
Prepare the sweet potatoes. Wash the potatoes, then use a fork to pierce them several times. Rub the potatoes with the olive oil and sprinkle with the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Bake the sweet potatoes. Place the prepared potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Slice and scoop. Allow the baked potatoes to cool slightly, then slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out some of the flesh, leaving a sturdy “boat” of skin.
Fill the potato skins. In a bowl, mix the scooped-out sweet potato flesh with the barbecue sauce, crumbled bacon, and half of the shredded cheese. Spoon this mixture back into the potato skin “boats”.
Bake again. Return the filled potato skins to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finish with toppings. Remove the loaded skins from the oven and drizzle with the ranch dressing. Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top as a fresh, colorful garnish.

And there you have it – a delectable and visually stunning dish that’s sure to impress your guests or satisfy your cravings. The combination of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors is simply irresistible.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Sweet Potato Skins make an excellent appetizer, snack, or even a main dish when paired with a fresh salad or coleslaw. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving them alongside grilled chicken, a hearty steak, or a crisp garden salad.

As for drinks, the bold flavors of these loaded skins pair wonderfully with a cold beer, a refreshing iced tea, or a creamy glass of milk. For a more festive touch, you could even serve them with a signature cocktail, such as a tangy margarita or a zesty lemon-lime spritzer.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can easily customize the BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Sweet Potato Skins to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs:

Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a kick of heat.
Vegetarian/vegan option: Substitute the bacon with crispy tofu or tempeh, and use dairy-free cheese and ranch dressing.
Seasonal variations: Experiment with fall flavors by adding a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice to the sweet potato filling.
Toppings galore: Get creative with additional toppings like diced avocado, crumbled feta, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to customizing these loaded sweet potato skins to suit your tastes and dietary preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you eat sweet potato skins?

Yes, sweet potato skins are edible and actually packed with nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Just make sure to wash them thoroughly before cooking.

How do you prepare sweet potato skins for cooking?

To prepare sweet potato skins for cooking, wash them well under running water to remove any dirt or debris. You can then bake, roast, or fry them according to your recipe.

Are sweet potato skins healthier than the flesh?

Sweet potato skins are indeed a healthy part of the vegetable, containing more fiber and nutrients than the flesh. Including the skins in your meals can add extra nutritional value.

What are some creative ways to use sweet potato skins in recipes?

Some creative ways to use sweet potato skins in recipes include making loaded sweet potato skins with toppings like cheese, bacon, and sour cream, or using them as a base for sweet potato skin nachos. You can also try slicing them thinly and baking them into crispy sweet potato skin chips.

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Conclusion

Indulge in the ultimate flavor experience with these irresistible BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Sweet Potato Skins. This dish combines the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with the bold and savory flavors of barbecue, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. Whether you’re hosting a party or craving a tasty snack, these loaded skins are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you coming back for more. Give this recipe a try and get ready to enjoy a delectable and visually stunning dish that’s sure to impress.

BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Sweet Potato Skins Recipe

Author: Time of Recipes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Get ready to indulge in a flavor explosion with these BBQ Bacon Ranch Loaded Sweet Potato Skins! This delectable dish combines the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with the bold and savory flavors of smoky barbecue sauce, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. Whether you’re hosting a party or simply craving a tasty snack, these loaded skins are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Ingredients

Scale

4 large sweet potatoes
4 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/4 cup barbecue sauce
1/4 cup ranch dressing
2 tablespoons chopped green onions

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the sweet potatoes. Wash the potatoes, then use a fork to pierce them several times. Rub the potatoes with the olive oil and sprinkle with the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Bake the sweet potatoes. Place the prepared potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Slice and scoop. Allow the baked potatoes to cool slightly, then slice them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, scoop out some of the flesh, leaving a sturdy “boat” of skin.
Fill the potato skins. In a bowl, mix the scooped-out sweet potato flesh with the barbecue sauce, crumbled bacon, and half of the shredded cheese. Spoon this mixture back into the potato skin “boats”.
Bake again. Return the filled potato skins to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finish with toppings. Remove the loaded skins from the oven and drizzle with the ranch dressing. Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top as a fresh, colorful garnish.

Notes

Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, bacon types (such as turkey bacon for a healthier option), or even dairy-free substitutes to cater to various dietary needs. For a spicy version, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a kick of heat. You can also customize by using crispy tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian/vegan option.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Appetizer, Snack
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 skins
Calories: 350 kcal
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 6g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: BBQ, Bacon, Ranch, Sweet Potatoes, Loaded Skins