Loaded Baked Potato Slices are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or side dish that everyone will love. These potato slices are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. Served with a side of sour cream for dipping, they are the perfect addition to any meal. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, instructions, and tips for making the perfect Loaded Baked Potato Slices. Additionally, we’ll provide variations and address frequently asked questions to ensure you achieve the best results.
Ingredients
For the Loaded Baked Potato Slices:
- 3-4 russet potatoes, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Sour cream, for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Slice Potatoes: Wash and slice the russet potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Brush with Butter: Place the potato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush both sides of each potato slice with melted butter.
- Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper on both sides of the potato slices.
Step 2: Bake the Potatoes
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through the baking time.
Step 3: Add Toppings
- Add Cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potato slices.
- Add Bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cheese.
- Bake Again: Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Add Green Onions: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top of the potato slices.
- Serve: Serve the loaded baked potato slices warm, with a side of sour cream for dipping. Enjoy!
Cooking Notes and Variations
Cooking Notes
- Potatoes: Make sure the potato slices are evenly cut to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Crispiness: For extra crispy potato slices, you can bake them on a wire rack placed over the baking sheet to allow air to circulate around the potatoes.
Variations
- Spicy Loaded Potatoes: Add sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before the second bake for a spicy kick.
- Different Cheeses: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for varied flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add more veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or tomatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I make these potato slices ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can slice and par-bake the potatoes ahead of time. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Add the toppings and bake just before serving.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftover potato slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze these potato slices?
A: Freezing is not recommended as the texture of the potatoes may change. They are best enjoyed fresh or reheated from the refrigerator.
Q4: What can I serve with loaded baked potato slices?
A: These potato slices are great as an appetizer or side dish. Serve them with a main course like grilled chicken, steak, or burgers, and a fresh salad.
Q5: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
A: Yes, you can use sweet potatoes. Adjust the baking time as needed since sweet potatoes may cook faster than russet potatoes.
Loaded Baked Potato Slices are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy texture and flavorful toppings, they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends. Follow these simple steps and tips to create a tasty and satisfying appetizer or side dish that everyone will love. Serve these delightful potato slices warm with a side of sour cream for dipping!
Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a tasty side dish, or a quick snack, this Loaded Baked Potato Slices recipe is an excellent choice. Enjoy the rich flavors and the ease of preparation, and feel free to experiment with different variations to make this recipe your own.