Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these loaded sliced baked potatoes! They’re not just your average spud; they’re a flavor explosion waiting to happen! Picture this: crispy, golden potato rounds topped with gooey melted cheese, savory bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions. It’s comfort food at its finest and an absolute hit at any gathering. Plus, they’re so easy to make! I love serving them as a side dish or even as a fun appetizer. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds (and thirds!), trust me! Get ready to indulge in these delicious loaded sliced baked potatoes that will have everyone begging for the recipe!
Ingredients List
- 4 large russet potatoes – the star of the show, these should be scrubbed clean and ready to turn into crispy rounds.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – I love using sharp cheddar for that extra kick, but you can choose your favorite cheese!
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon – crispy bacon adds that savory touch; don’t skimp on this one!
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions – these bring a fresh, zesty flavor that balances everything perfectly.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – for a creamy, tangy finish that takes these potatoes to the next level!
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for bringing out all those delicious flavors!
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is crucial for achieving that golden crispiness!
- Next, grab those beautiful russet potatoes and give them a good wash. You want them clean since we’re leaving the skin on for that extra crunch!
- Once they’re dry, slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Don’t worry about making them perfect, just aim for even slices so they cook evenly.
- Now, lay those potato slices out on a baking sheet. If you have parchment paper, use it! It helps with cleanup and keeps them from sticking.
- Drizzle a little olive oil over the top and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss them around gently to coat each slice—this will help them crisp up beautifully.
- Pop the baking sheet into the oven and let them bake for about 30-35 minutes. You want them to be golden brown and crispy on the edges, so keep an eye on them!
- When they’re ready, take them out of the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the top. Yes, please!
- Put them back in the oven for another 5-7 minutes until the cheese is all melty and irresistible.
- Finally, take them out, sprinkle with fresh green onions, and serve with a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy
You’re going to absolutely adore how simple these loaded sliced baked potatoes are to whip up! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious side dish ready in about 55 minutes. I’m talking about 15 minutes of prep and then you just pop them in the oven! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining guests. It’s like having a gourmet dish without the hassle, and who doesn’t love that?
Flavorful and Satisfying
Let me tell you, the flavor combination here is nothing short of magical. The crispy potato rounds have that warm, comforting taste we all crave, while the gooey melted cheese and savory bacon create a mouthwatering experience! And don’t even get me started on the fresh green onions that add a lovely crunch and brightness to each bite. Seriously, every layer is packed with flavor and texture that will leave you feeling totally satisfied!
Customizable
One of my favorite things about these loaded sliced baked potatoes is how easily they can be customized! Don’t have bacon? No problem! You can swap it out for some sautéed mushrooms or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little heat. Love a different cheese? Go for it! You can mix and match toppings based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. It’s all about making this dish your own, and I promise it’ll be delicious no matter how you choose to top it!
Tips for Success
To really nail these loaded sliced baked potatoes, I’ve got a few pro tips that will take your dish from good to absolutely spectacular!
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are my go-to for this recipe because they’re starchy and fluffy, giving you that perfect crispy exterior. But if you want to try something different, Yukon Golds work well too!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Make sure to give your potato slices plenty of space. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam rather than crisp up. You want that beautiful golden crunch!
- Season Generously: Don’t hold back on the salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances the flavor of the potatoes and all the delicious toppings you’re about to add. Taste is key!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green onions and high-quality cheese make a world of difference in this dish. They really elevate the flavors and bring everything together beautifully.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings! I love adding a drizzle of ranch dressing or some jalapeños for a spicy kick. The sky’s the limit!
- Check for Doneness: Keep an eye on the potatoes while they’re baking. Every oven is different, so check for that lovely golden brown color to ensure they’re perfectly crispy.
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most amazing loaded sliced baked potatoes that everyone will rave about!
Variations
Now, let’s get creative with these loaded sliced baked potatoes! The beauty of this dish is its versatility; you can switch things up to match your taste or what you have in your pantry. Here are some fun ideas to inspire you:
- Tex-Mex Twist: Top your potatoes with some spicy salsa, black beans, and a sprinkle of jalapeños. Add a dollop of guacamole or a drizzle of avocado crema for a creamy finish!
- Italian Style: Swap out the cheddar cheese for mozzarella, and add some marinara sauce along with sliced pepperoni or Italian sausage. Finish it off with fresh basil for an Italian flair!
- Loaded Veggie Delight: Go meatless by piling on sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. You can even add a sprinkle of feta cheese for a tangy kick!
- BBQ Flavor: Brush the potato slices with your favorite barbecue sauce before baking. Top with shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and sliced pickles after they come out of the oven.
- Breakfast Style: Add a fried egg on top and some crumbled sausage or bacon bits for a hearty breakfast option. A little hot sauce would be fantastic here too!
- Herb and Garlic Infusion: Mix minced garlic and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme with your olive oil before drizzling over the potato slices. This will add a beautiful aroma and flavor!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own unique combinations. The possibilities are endless, and I can’t wait to see what you come up with! Happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers of these loaded sliced baked potatoes (which is rare in my house!), you’ll want to store them properly to keep that delicious flavor intact. Start by letting the potatoes cool completely before storing them. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy.
Once cooled, transfer the leftover slices to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to separate layers with parchment paper if you have a lot, so they don’t stick together. Trust me, nobody wants a clump of potatoes!
When you’re ready to enjoy those tasty leftovers again, the best method for reheating is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and place the slices on a baking sheet. Cover them loosely with foil to keep them from drying out, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they’re warmed through and crispy again. This way, you’ll get that lovely crunch back!
If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave, but be careful! Just heat them in short intervals, about 30 seconds at a time, to avoid making them rubbery. Nobody wants that! So, whether you choose the oven or microwave, you can still enjoy those flavorful loaded sliced baked potatoes like they were just made!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying loaded sliced baked potatoes, it’s always good to know what you’re putting in your body, right? Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional data per serving (which is about one potato slice):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 300mg
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Sugar: 1g
Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the exact ingredients you use and your portion sizes, but this should give you a good ballpark idea. Enjoy these scrumptious loaded sliced baked potatoes guilt-free, knowing they’re not only delicious but also provide a nice balance of flavors and nutrients!
FAQ Section
Can I make loaded sliced baked potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prep the potato slices and store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just be sure to drizzle them with olive oil and season them right before popping them in the oven to keep that crispy texture!
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you’re looking for a bacon alternative, you could use crispy fried onions for that savory crunch, or even sautéed mushrooms for a delicious umami flavor. You could also go vegetarian and add some extra cheese or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for that smoky taste!
Can I use other types of cheese?
Definitely! While I love using cheddar cheese, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a tangy blue cheese. Each cheese will bring its unique flavor to these loaded sliced baked potatoes, so try whatever you’re in the mood for!
How do I know when my potatoes are done baking?
You’ll know your potatoes are ready when they’re golden brown and crispy on the edges. A quick poke with a fork will also help; it should go through easily when they’re cooked just right. Just keep an eye on them towards the end of the baking time!
Can I freeze loaded sliced baked potatoes?
While I recommend enjoying them fresh, you can freeze leftover cooked slices. Just make sure they’re completely cooled, then store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat in the oven for the best results!
Loaded Sliced Baked Potatoes That Will Delight Your Tastebuds
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious loaded sliced baked potatoes topped with cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and dry the potatoes.
- Slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
- Place the sliced potatoes on a baking sheet.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle the cheese and bacon over the potatoes.
- Return to the oven for 5-7 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Top with green onions and serve with sour cream.
Notes
- Use any cheese you prefer.
- Adjust toppings based on your taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: loaded sliced baked potatoes, baked potatoes, potato recipes
