Baked Potato Slices Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing appetizer or side that always disappears fast, Baked Potato Slices are about to steal the show. Imagine golden rounds of tender potato, brushed with savory bacon drippings, crowned with gooey cheddar, crisp bacon, and a lift of fresh green onion. Each bite is a burst of creamy, salty, cheesy perfection that still lets that lovely potato flavor shine. Whether you’re feeding friends during game night or jazzing up a family dinner, baked potato slices bring the ultimate comfort food vibes in an irresistibly snackable form.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about Baked Potato Slices? You only need a handful of basic ingredients to create bold, layered flavor and appealing textures. Don’t skimp—each ingredient earns its place on the baking tray!

• Russet potatoes: The classic choice for their starchiness, they bake up creamy with crisp edges—scrub them well and keep the skins on for rustic charm.
• Vegetable oil: A light coating helps the potatoes roast evenly and get that glorious golden color; olive or canola oil works too.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning every bite; don’t be shy, but sprinkle to taste.
• Cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts into bubbling perfection over each slice—sharp cheddar adds extra tang, but use your favorite variety.
• Bacon (uncooked): Fried until perfectly crisp, then crumbled over the top for salty, smoky crunch.
• Italian seasoning: A pinch of this blend adds just the right herby complexity and aroma.
• Green onions (diced): Their freshness and color offer contrast and a subtle bite that pops against the richness.

How to Make Baked Potato Slices

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Bacon

Get things rolling by preheating your oven to 375 degrees. This temperature is just right for coaxing the potatoes into tender, golden rounds. While the oven heats, take the bacon out of the fridge and let it rest on the counter for about five minutes—it’ll crisp up better this way when cooked.

Step 2: Slice and Season the Potatoes

Slice your scrubbed russet potatoes into sturdy 1/2-inch rounds. With a pastry brush, lightly coat each slice with oil on both sides to encourage that signature golden crust. Give them a good sprinkle of salt and pepper so every bite is flavorful.

Step 3: Bake the Potato Slices

Arrange the seasoned potato slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, making sure no pieces overlap. Pop them in the hot oven for 25 minutes, letting the heat work its magic as they start to soften and brown.

Step 4: Cook the Bacon

While the potatoes bake, it’s time for bacon duty. Cook the bacon on low heat in a skillet, flipping with tongs so it crisps evenly on both sides. Once done, set the bacon aside to cool (you’ll crumble it soon!) but leave those flavorful bacon drippings in the pan—you’ll use them next for pure deliciousness.

Step 5: Brush with Bacon Drippings and Bake Again

After 25 minutes, remove the potato slices from the oven. Lightly brush the tops with bacon drippings, then flip and brush the other side. This simple move infuses tons of flavor and helps the slices get extra crispy after another 10 minutes in the oven. While they bake, crumble up the bacon.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bacon, Then Melt

Lower the oven to 350 degrees. Top each potato slice generously with shredded cheddar and sprinkle with your crumbled bacon. Return the tray to the oven for about five minutes—just long enough for the cheese to melt into gorgeous pools of savory goodness.

Step 7: Finish with Seasoning and Garnishes

Take the finished baked potato slices out and hit them with a generous dusting of Italian seasoning. Finish up by scattering a handful of fresh, diced green onion over the melted cheese. Now, just plate and serve with cold sour cream for dipping!

How to Serve Baked Potato Slices

Garnishes

A handful of diced green onions is classic, giving a pop of freshness and color that balances the rich flavors. If you want to jazz things up, a sprinkle of chopped chives or fresh parsley works beautifully. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream on the side—it cools and complements the hot, cheesy slices perfectly.

Side Dishes

Baked Potato Slices make a fantastic side to just about any main. Pair them with grilled steak or roast chicken for a cozy, pub-style meal. They’re also stellar next to burgers, pulled pork, or a bright, tangy tossed salad. If you’re serving these at a party, let them share the table with sliders and fresh veggies for a casual, colorful spread.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of showmanship, stack your Baked Potato Slices artfully on a platter with layers of cheese and bacon in between, or set up a potato slice bar with toppings like salsa, ranch dressing, diced jalapeños, and more. Skewer smaller slices with toothpicks for easy “potato bites,” or serve each slice over a bed of arugula for a playful appetizer twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover Baked Potato Slices, let them cool to room temperature before moving them to an airtight container. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days and still taste fantastic with a quick reheat.

Freezing

To freeze, lay cooled slices in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to two months. For the best texture, store without the green onion garnish and add it fresh after reheating.

Reheating

For the tastiest results, reheat leftover Baked Potato Slices in a 375-degree oven for about 10–12 minutes until warmed through and crispy. The microwave works for quick snacks but won’t crisp the edges as nicely. Top with fresh green onions or herbs after reheating for a just-made feel.

FAQs

Can I make Baked Potato Slices without bacon?

Absolutely! These are just as tasty with the bacon left out—simply skip the bacon drippings step, and try brushing the slices with a touch of infused olive oil or melted butter for extra flavor. Add smoked paprika or a sprinkle of your favorite spices for a plant-based twist.

What kind of potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are the gold standard for baked potato slices, thanks to their starchy texture that crisps beautifully. Yukon Golds or even sweet potatoes can also work well, each adding their own flair and color. Just be sure to slice them evenly for even cooking.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Make sure to add the cheese and bacon only during the final few minutes of baking, and lower the oven temp as directed. If your oven runs hot or the cheese browns too quickly, tent the tray loosely with foil while it melts.

Can I prep Baked Potato Slices in advance?

Yes, you can pre-bake the potato slices and cook the bacon a day ahead. Store the potatoes and bacon separately in the fridge, then assemble with cheese and bake just before serving for melty, fresh results.

What dips go well with these slices?

Sour cream is the classic pairing, but these slices are also great dipped in ranch, garlic aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or even barbecue sauce for a smoky twist. Set out a few options so everyone can try their favorite!

Final Thoughts

If comfort food with a bit of flair is what you crave, don’t wait another minute to try these Baked Potato Slices. They’re easy, endlessly customizable, and sure to be a smash at your next dinner or get-together. Gather your favorite toppings and enjoy this irresistible treat—you just might become known for your signature potato slices!

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