Potatoes are a staple starch for many diners. They're filling and they pair well with many proteins. However, don't overlook the potential in potato skins. You've probably eaten stuffed potato skins in the past, perhaps as an appetizer in a chain restaurant. Maybe they were tasty, but if you've had one potato skin, you've had them all, right? Wrong.

All you need to do is use your imagination as you read these recipe ideas. They'll open up a whole new world of potato skin possibilities. There are so many ways to dress up this bar food staple and create a main course dish or appetizer that will wow your family or dinner guests. Next time you look at your spuds and wish you could do something exciting with them, here are a few options to knock your socks off.

Pot pie stuffed potato skins
Pot pie is one of the ultimate comfort foods. If you want a change of pace, though, replace that pie crust with potato skins. It's a delicious twist on a classic. Preparation will take a bit of time, but the results will be worth it. Get the recipe here.

How to make bacon guacamole potato skins
Bacon, guacamole and potato skins. How have you not combined them already? They're all staples for when friends gather together for fun, like watching sports or movies at home. Skip the chips and instead, fill your skins with rich, creamy guac. Get the recipe here.

Mexican stuffed potato skins
Take your potato skins south of the border with this scrumptious and beautiful Mexican-inspired concoction. The Mexican spices and flavors have a real kick, and it's all held together with rich, melted cheese. This recipe calls for chicken, but you can easily make it vegetarian. Get the recipe here.

Lasagna-stuffed potato skins
Here's a recipe to blow your mind. Nobody would ever expect you to serve lasagna stuffed inside a baked potato. If you want to skip the pasta, you can get all the same flavors and the robust Italian taste in a fresh, fun and gluten-free way. Get the recipe here.

Chicken-bacon-ranch potato skins
Chicken, bacon and ranch combined together make a sensational flavor trio. Of course for many food fans, anything involving bacon or ranch dressing will always be worth a shot. These skins are a hearty appetizer and likely to be a crowd-pleaser for your meat-loving friends. Get the recipe here.

Chili-stuffed potato skins
You know those bread bowls that you can eat after finishing your soup or chili? Potato skins can serve the same purpose! They're also sturdier and less likely to get soggy from holding your chili. Get the yummy recipe here.

Cheesesteak potato skins
Philadelphians might consider this heresy, but just look at these treats. They have all the familiar, comforting taste of a cheesesteak, but inside potato skins. Brimming with meat and cheese, these skins are just waiting to be enjoyed. Get the recipe here.

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