If you’re on the lookout for a crowd-pleasing snack or a delicious side that bursts with flavor, let me introduce you to the magic of the Loaded Baked Potato Slices with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe. This dish takes simple potato slices and transforms them into golden, crispy bites topped with gooey melted cheddar, savory bacon crumbles, and fresh green onions. Each ingredient plays its part in creating a playful melody of textures and tastes that everyone will love. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or just a cozy night in, this recipe is comfort food elevated to a whole new level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s amazing how just a handful of straightforward ingredients can come together to create such a memorable treat. Each item is essential, adding the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color that brings this dish to life.
- Russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes crisp up beautifully and hold their shape well for slicing.
- Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs that brings a fragrant, slightly savory note to the potatoes.
- Oil (olive, vegetable, or cooking oil): Helps the potato slices get that gorgeous golden and crispy exterior.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasons the potatoes perfectly.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to balance the richness.
- Cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully with a sharp, tangy bite that pairs wonderfully with potatoes and bacon.
- Bacon slices (cooked and crumbled): Brings irresistible smoky, salty crunch.
- Green onions (chopped): Adds a fresh, mild sharpness and vibrant green color for contrast.
- Sour cream (optional): A cool, creamy topping that perfectly complements the loaded slices.
How to Make Loaded Baked Potato Slices with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Meanwhile, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. This setup ensures your potato slices bake evenly and don’t stick.
Step 2: Slice the Potatoes
Carefully slice your scrubbed russet potatoes into ½ inch thick rounds. Keeping the slices uniform helps them cook evenly, ensuring each bite is cooked to perfection—crispy outside and tender inside.
Step 3: Season the Slices
Arrange the potato slices on your prepared baking sheet with a little space between each one. Brush both sides generously with your choice of oil, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning. This combination infuses the potatoes with layers of flavor right from the start.
Step 4: Bake Until Tender and Crisp
Pop the potatoes in the oven for 15 minutes. Then flip each slice to guarantee even browning and bake for an additional 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when a fork slides in easily—soft on the inside with a nicely browned exterior.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bacon
Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon over the hot potato slices. Return to the oven for about 5 minutes, just enough time for the cheese to melt into irresistibly gooey perfection.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, scatter the chopped green onions on top for a fresh burst of flavor and color. Serve immediately with a dollop of sour cream if you like, and enjoy these mouthwatering bites!
How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Slices with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes. A swirl of sour cream, a sprinkle of extra green onions, or even a dash of smoked paprika can add depth and interest while making the presentation pop.
Side Dishes
These loaded slices work beautifully alongside fresh salads, grilled meats, or even a bowl of chili. They’re versatile enough to serve as the main star or a hearty complement to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, consider serving the slices on a large platter with small appetizer forks or toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also layer them in individual serving dishes topped with avocado slices or a drizzle of ranch dressing for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld even more, though the slices might lose some crispness, which can easily be revived on reheating.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked potato slices before adding cheese and bacon to maintain the best texture. Place the sliced potatoes on a tray to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready, bake from frozen and add toppings fresh.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in the oven or toaster oven at 350°F until hot and crispy again. Microwaving works too but may result in soggier slices, so stick with the oven when possible.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will give the dish a sweeter, earthier flavor and a lovely orange hue, though cooking times may vary slightly. Keep an eye on them as they bake to avoid overcooking.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon or swap it for a plant-based bacon substitute or crispy roasted chickpeas. The cheddar and green onions pack plenty of flavor, so you won’t miss the meatiness.
Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?
Nope! Keeping the skins on adds a wonderful texture and extra nutrients. Just make sure to wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly before slicing.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time for a party?
Yes, you can partially bake the potato slices and then add the cheese and bacon just before serving. This way, your slices stay fresh and melty without too much last-minute work.
What cheddar cheese works best?
A sharp or extra-sharp cheddar will bring the best, bold flavor that balances the salty bacon and herb seasoning. Feel free to experiment with mild cheddar or even a blend for a unique twist.
Final Thoughts
Once you try the Loaded Baked Potato Slices with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe, I’m confident it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen repertoire. It’s a delightful, satisfying dish that feels both comforting and festive, perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself. So go ahead, grab those potatoes and dive into this cheesy, savory, crispy delight—your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Loaded Baked Potato Slices with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Loaded Baked Potato Slides are a delicious and easy appetizer or side dish featuring thinly sliced russet potatoes baked to tender perfection, topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. Served with a dollop of sour cream, these tasty bites are perfect for entertaining or a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Seasoning
- 3 russet potatoes (washed and scrubbed well)
- 2 tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 tbsp oil (olive oil, vegetable oil, or cooking oil of choice)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Toppings
- 2 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 5 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- Sour Cream (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the potato slices evenly.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or tin foil and spray the foil with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Slice Potatoes: Carefully cut the russet potatoes into ½ inch thick slices, keeping the thickness consistent so they cook evenly.
- Arrange Potatoes: Lay out the potato slices on the baking sheet with small spaces between each slice for proper air circulation.
- Season Slices: Brush both sides of each potato slice with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly on top.
- Bake Potato Slices: Bake the slices in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then flip each slice and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Adjust Oven Temperature: Remove the potatoes from the oven and reduce the oven temperature to 350°F to prepare for melting the cheese and crisping toppings.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the baked potato slices, then return the baking sheet to the oven for about 5 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
- Garnish: Remove from oven and transfer the loaded potato slides to a serving platter. Sprinkle chopped green onions evenly over the top for freshness and color.
- Serve: Serve warm with sour cream on the side if desired, and enjoy these delicious loaded baked potato slides!
Notes
- Make sure potato slices are uniform in thickness to ensure even cooking.
- You can substitute cheddar cheese with your favorite cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack.
- Bacon can be replaced with vegetarian bacon for a vegetarian twist, but this will affect the diet classification.
- Optional sour cream adds a creamy contrast to the loaded potato slices.
- Leftover slices can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for best results.
