Cheesy Baked Potato Rounds are the ultimate snack or side dish, perfect for any occasion. They’re crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with gooey, melted cheese that will have everyone coming back for more. This recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
For the Potato Rounds:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Topping:
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (Cheddar, Mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Chopped chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the potato rounds.
- Slice the Potatoes: Peel the large potatoes and slice them into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices as uniform as possible to ensure even cooking.
- Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potato rounds with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Make sure each potato round is evenly coated with the seasoning mixture.
2. Bake the Potato Rounds:
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the seasoned potato rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet. For best results, use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a non-stick baking mat to prevent sticking.
- Bake Until Crispy: Bake the potato rounds in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Flip the potato rounds halfway through the baking time to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
3. Add the Cheese Topping:
- Top with Cheese: Once the potato rounds are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over each potato round. You can use Cheddar, Mozzarella, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- Melt the Cheese: Return the potato rounds to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
4. Garnish and Serve:
- Add Fresh Herbs: After baking, remove the potato rounds from the oven and sprinkle them with chopped fresh parsley. For an extra burst of flavor, you can also add chopped chives if desired.
- Serve Warm: Serve the cheesy baked potato rounds warm as a snack, appetizer, or side dish. They pair perfectly with dipping sauces like ranch, sour cream, or ketchup.
Cooking Notes
- Potato Variety: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best results, as they become crispier when baked. Waxy potatoes like red or fingerling potatoes may not get as crispy.
- Seasoning Variations: Feel free to experiment with other seasonings, such as onion powder, Italian seasoning, or chili powder, to customize the flavor to your liking.
- Cheese Options: For a different twist, try using flavored cheeses such as Pepper Jack for a bit of spice or Parmesan for a sharper taste.
FAQs
1. Can I make these potato rounds in advance? Yes, you can prepare the potato rounds ahead of time. Bake them until they are crispy but not fully cooked. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat them in the oven and add the cheese for a few minutes until melted.
2. Can I freeze the potato rounds? Yes, you can freeze the cooked potato rounds. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.
3. How can I make these potato rounds spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture for a spicy kick. You can also use spicy cheese or add hot sauce to your dipping sauces.
4. What are some good dipping sauces to serve with these potato rounds? These cheesy potato rounds pair well with a variety of dipping sauces, including ranch dressing, sour cream, ketchup, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
Cheesy Baked Potato Rounds are an irresistible treat that combines the crispy texture of baked potatoes with the rich, gooey goodness of melted cheese. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer at a party, a side dish with dinner, or a tasty snack, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ready to enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make snack? Gather your ingredients, follow this simple recipe, and treat yourself and your loved ones to the savory goodness of Cheesy Baked Potato Rounds. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who love crispy, cheesy delights!
