If you are on the hunt for a snack or side dish that brings comfort with every bite, you are going to love this Baked Potato Rounds Recipe. These golden, crispy-edged potato slices are seasoned just right and topped with melty cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions for a delicious, crowd-pleasing treat. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or a casual get-together, they’re irresistibly tasty and easy enough to whip up any day of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients make this recipe straightforward yet flavorful. Each element plays a crucial role in building layers of texture and taste that turn humble potatoes into a stunning dish.
- Russet potatoes: Choose medium-sized for perfect slicing and baking texture.
- Olive oil: Helps the potatoes crisp up beautifully in the oven without added grease.
- Garlic powder: Adds fragrant depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Paprika: Brings a warm, smoky note and vibrant color to the potato rounds.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the potatoes perfectly.
- Black pepper: Offers a subtle kick and balances the seasoning.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey, savory goodness right on top.
- Cooked bacon: Crumbled bacon pieces add crunch and smoky flavor contrast.
- Green onions: A fresh, mild onion flavor that lightens the richness.
- Sour cream (optional): The perfect creamy topping to complement the heat and texture.
How to Make Baked Potato Rounds Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Slice the russet potatoes into uniform 1/4-inch rounds for even cooking. This thickness ensures the centers cook through while you still get a crispy edge.
Step 2: Season the Potato Rounds
Place the potato rounds in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper, then toss everything together until each round is thoroughly coated. This simple seasoning mix is the secret behind their flavor-packed crunch.
Step 3: Bake the Potatoes
Arrange the potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they don’t overlap. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping them halfway through so both sides get that beautiful golden crisp. You will notice the edges developing a satisfying crunch while the centers stay tender.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bacon
Once baked, remove the potato rounds from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon all over them. Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese has melted into bubbly, savory pockets atop the potatoes.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish the Baked Potato Rounds Recipe by sprinkling the sliced green onions on top. These bright, fresh accents add a lovely pop of color and mild onion flavor. Serve them warm, with sour cream on the side if you like, for dipping or dolloping.
How to Serve Baked Potato Rounds Recipe
Garnishes
Green onions provide a crisp, fresh contrast, but feel free to experiment with chopped chives or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for extra smoky aroma. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce can bring creaminess or heat to suit your mood.
Side Dishes
Baked Potato Rounds are incredibly versatile as a side. They pair wonderfully with grilled chicken, juicy burgers, or a fresh garden salad. Their crispy texture adds a delightful contrast to softer mains, making them a perfect crowd-pleaser at any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking these potato rounds layered with different toppings like guacamole, salsa, or a spoonful of chili for a zesty twist. You can even use them as bite-size canvas for appetizers by adding sour cream and smoked salmon or a little crumbled feta and roasted red pepper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, let the potato rounds cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days and remain tasty for quick snacks or reheated sides.
Freezing
Freezing baked potato rounds is possible but best done without cheese or toppings first. Lay the plain baked rounds on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. You can add toppings after reheating to prevent sogginess.
Reheating
Reheat your potato rounds in a hot oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back their crispiness and melty cheese magic. Avoid microwaving as it tends to soften the edges and lose the signature crunch.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this Baked Potato Rounds Recipe?
Absolutely! Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative if you prefer a creamier interior, while red potatoes hold their shape well and offer a slightly different flavor profile.
How can I make these potato rounds vegetarian?
Simply skip the bacon or substitute it with plant-based bacon alternatives or smoked tempeh crumbles for that satisfying smoky crunch without meat.
Is it okay to add spices like cayenne or chili powder?
Yes, adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder can give your potato rounds an exciting spicy kick. Just be sure to adjust according to your heat preference.
What if I want crispier potato rounds?
Make sure to slice the potatoes evenly and flip them halfway during baking. Using parchment paper or a non-stick sheet can also help prevent sticking and promote crisp edges.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for a party?
You can partially bake the rounds in advance and keep them refrigerated, then add cheese and bacon and finish baking just before serving to keep them warm and fresh.
Final Thoughts
Making this Baked Potato Rounds Recipe is like treating yourself to the ultimate comfort food with a crispy, cheesy twist. Easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable, these little potato gems are sure to become a household favorite. I can’t wait for you to try them and watch everyone go back for seconds!
Print
Baked Potato Rounds Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Baked Potato Rounds are a delicious and easy-to-make side dish featuring perfectly crisped potato slices seasoned with garlic, paprika, and black pepper, topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. Served warm with optional sour cream, they make a perfect appetizer or accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 medium russet potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
Seasoning and Toppings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potato rounds with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated with the seasoning and oil.
- Arrange and Bake: Lay the seasoned potato rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, flipping the slices once halfway through the cooking time to promote even crisping.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Remove the potatoes from the oven and evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon over the top. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese has melted beautifully.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, top the cheesy potato rounds with sliced green onions. Serve warm with sour cream on the side if desired for added creaminess and tang.
Notes
- You can use Yukon Gold potatoes instead of russets for a creamier texture.
- Add sliced jalapeños to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
- For a vegetarian version, swap the bacon with plant-based alternatives or omit it entirely.
