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Baked potato skins filled with creamy cottage cheese, topped with chopped green onions and cracked black pepper, served on a wooden plate with a bowl of sour cream.

Cottage Cheese Potato Skins

Crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these Cottage Cheese Potato Skins are a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light meal, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 53 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Appetizer, Snack
Cuisine American
Servings 4 serves
Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium russet potatoes
  • 1 cup full-fat or low-fat cottage cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp paprika
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings – Customize your Skins:

  • Chopped green onions
  • Crumbled turkey bacon or air-fried chickpeas
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro
  • Hot sauce or sriracha
  • Greek yogurt or sour cream for topping

Instructions
 

  • -Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
    -Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly.
    Place potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 45–50 minutes, flipping halfway.
    -Let them cool slightly, then slice in half lengthwise and scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a thin layer.
    -Brush the skins with olive oil and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
    -Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until crispy, flipping halfway through.
    -Mix cottage cheese with a pinch of seasoning or herbs (optional) and spoon into each skin.
    -Add any optional toppings and air fry for an additional 2–3 minutes if cheese is added.
    -Garnish with fresh herbs or yogurt, and serve hot.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Tip: You can bake and scoop the potatoes ahead of time. Store the empty skins in the fridge for up to 2 days before crisping and filling.
  • Crispier Texture: For an ultra-crispy finish, air fry the skins before adding the cottage cheese filling. This mimics the double-fry method.
  • Customization Ideas: Feel free to mix the cottage cheese with ranch seasoning, roasted garlic, or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
  • Low-Carb Variation: Swap potatoes for zucchini boats or large mushroom caps for a keto-friendly version.
  • Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the skins soggy.
  • Freezer Friendly: Freeze fully assembled but unbaked skins in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
Keyword Cottage Cheese Potato Skins