Cheeseburger Fried Potato Skins with Basil Aioli

These potato skins are the kind of appetizer that instantly steals the spotlight. Crispy on the outside, loaded on the inside, and served with a cool basil aioli that pulls everything together. Trust me, you’re going to love this, it hits all the familiar cheeseburger notes but in a fun, shareable way that disappears fast.

Why This Dish Feels Like a Party Favorite

There is something irresistible about handheld comfort food. These potato skins bring together crunchy potatoes, savory beef, and gooey cheese, all balanced by a fresh and creamy dip. They feel indulgent without being complicated.

The Inspiration Behind This Loaded Classic

Potato skins have long been a staple at casual gatherings, while cheeseburgers remain one of the most loved comfort foods. Bringing them together creates a dish that feels playful, familiar, and incredibly satisfying.

Why This Recipe Always Delivers

Versatile: Perfect for game nights, parties, or casual dinners.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps with big flavor payoff.
Customizable: Easy to tweak toppings and seasonings.
Crowd-Pleasing: Familiar flavors everyone recognizes.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Components can be prepped early.
Great for Leftovers: Reheats well and stays flavorful.

Pro Cooking Tips You’ll Appreciate

Choose medium sized potatoes so they are easy to handle. Scoop carefully to keep the skins sturdy. Season every layer lightly so the final result tastes balanced.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Deep Fryer or Heavy Pot: For crisping the potato skins.
Skillet: To cook the beef filling.
Mixing Bowl: For the basil aioli.

Ingredients You Will Need For This Recipe

Everything here works together for bold, comforting flavor.

1. Russet Potatoes: 6 medium, baked and halved, create the crispy base.
2. Ground Beef: 450 g, brings classic cheeseburger flavor.
3. Cheddar Cheese: 200 g shredded, melts beautifully.
4. Green Onions: 3 stalks chopped, add freshness.
5. Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste.
6. Black Pepper: 0.5 teaspoon, for balance.
7. Paprika: 1 teaspoon, adds warmth.
8. Vegetable Oil: For frying, enough to submerge skins.
9. Mayonnaise: 180 ml, forms the aioli base.
10. Fresh Basil: 20 g leaves, blended for brightness.
11. Garlic: 1 small clove, adds depth to the aioli.
12. Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, lifts the sauce.

Easy Ingredient Substitutions

Ground Beef: Ground turkey works well.
Cheddar Cheese: Use a cheese blend if preferred.
Fresh Basil: Parsley can be used for a milder flavor.

Spotlight Ingredients

Russet Potatoes: Their thick skins crisp up perfectly when fried.
Basil Aioli: Adds freshness that balances the richness.

Let’s Get Cooking Together

Now let’s dive into the fun part and bring everything together.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Heat oil to 175 C and preheat oven to 200 C.
2. Combine Ingredients: Brown ground beef with salt, pepper, and paprika until fully cooked.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Scoop out potato halves, leaving a sturdy shell.
4. Assemble the Dish: Fry potato skins until golden, then fill with beef and cheese.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with green onions.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve hot with basil aioli on the side.

Texture and Flavor Experience

The potato skins are crunchy and golden, the filling is savory and juicy, and the cheese melts into every bite. The basil aioli adds a cool, creamy contrast.

Helpful Tips and Tricks

• Fry skins in batches for even crisping.
• Drain well to avoid greasiness.
• Serve immediately for best texture.

What to Avoid

• Over scooping the potatoes.
• Overcrowding the fryer.
• Skipping seasoning layers.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 520
Note: These values are approximate.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Prepare the beef and aioli ahead of time and store chilled. Fry and assemble just before serving. Leftovers can be reheated in the oven.

How to Serve

Serve as an appetizer or pair with a fresh salad for a casual meal.

Creative Leftover Transformations

Chop leftovers and use them as a filling for wraps or sandwiches.

Additional Tips

Let the aioli chill for 15 minutes before serving so flavors blend. This one’s a total game-changer.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve on a large platter with the aioli in the center and a sprinkle of green onions.

Variations to Try

• Add diced pickles to the filling.
• Use pepper jack cheese for heat.
• Add sautéed onions to the beef.
• Try sweet potatoes instead.

FAQ’s

1. Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, they will be less crispy but still good.

2. Can I make these ahead?

Yes, prep components in advance.

3. What potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal.

4. Can I air fry them?

Yes, adjust timing as needed.

5. Is the aioli necessary?

It adds balance but is optional.

6. Can I use a different sauce?

Yes, any creamy dip works.

7. How do I keep them crispy?

Serve immediately after baking.

8. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, fry in batches.

9. Are they freezer friendly?

Not recommended after frying.

10. Are they filling?

Let me tell you, it’s worth every bite.

Conclusion

These cheeseburger fried potato skins with basil aioli bring comfort food and fun together in the best way. Crispy, savory, and perfect for sharing, they are guaranteed to be a hit every single time.

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