Cheesy Baked Potato Rounds: A Perfect Snack or Side Dish
Craving a cheesy, crispy snack or side dish? Cheesy Baked Potato Rounds are just what you need! These delicious rounds are perfectly crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with gooey melted cheese. Whether served as a side to your dinner or a tasty appetizer, they’ll be a hit with anyone who loves potatoes and cheese!
Ingredients:
- 4 medium potatoes (russet or Yukon gold work best)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions or chives (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Instructions:
Preheat Your Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the potato rounds from sticking.
Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Slice them into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Leave the skins on for extra texture and flavor — they’ll crisp up beautifully during baking.
Season the Potato Rounds: Arrange the sliced potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Toss gently to coat all the rounds evenly.
Bake the Potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the potato rounds are tender and lightly golden.
Top with Cheese: Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the rounds. Return them to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Finishing Touches: After baking, remove the potato rounds from the oven. Drizzle with melted butter and add a dollop of sour cream if desired. Top with chopped green onions or chives for extra flavor and color.
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Baked Potato Rounds:
Choose the Right Potatoes:
Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which crisps up nicely in the oven. Yukon golds are also a great choice if you prefer a creamier texture.
Cut Even Slices:
For evenly cooked potato rounds, slice them as uniformly as possible, about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures they all cook at the same rate, giving you the perfect crispy texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:
Make sure the potato rounds are spread out in a single layer with a bit of space between them. This allows the heat to circulate evenly, ensuring that they crisp up perfectly on both sides.
Add Extra Flavor with Seasonings:
While salt and pepper are a must, don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices. Try adding smoked paprika, onion powder, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a bit of heat.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese:
For the best melting cheese, opt for freshly grated cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture and meltability.
Crisp Up the Edges:
If you want extra crispy edges, flip the potato rounds halfway through baking. This will help them brown more evenly and get crispy on both sides.
Toppings and Variations:
These potato rounds are very versatile. Top them with crispy bacon bits, sour cream, or guacamole for extra indulgence. You can even try different types of cheese, like mozzarella for a stretchier texture or gouda for a smoky flavor.
Make Ahead:
You can prepare the potato rounds in advance. Just slice the potatoes, season, and store them in the fridge for up to a few hours before baking. This makes them an easy option for a party or meal prep.