Loaded Baked Potato Rounds: Ultimate Party Snack

Cooking has always been my happy place, a refuge where even the simplest ingredients can transform into something magical. My journey with loaded baked potato rounds began one chilly evening when comfort food was the only thing on my mind. I remember rummaging through my pantry, finding russet potatoes, cheddar cheese, and beef bacon, and thinking—could these humble ingredients create something extraordinary?

As I sliced the potatoes, I felt a sense of anticipation. Would these loaded baked potato rounds become a new family favorite? The combination of crispy potato edges, gooey cheese, and savory bacon promised something special. My kitchen was soon filled with the tantalizing aroma of beef bacon frying, a scent that always brings a smile to my face.

When I finally pulled the potato rounds from the oven, their golden hue and bubbling cheese were irresistible. I topped them with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of green onions, adding a touch of freshness. In that moment, I realized that these loaded baked potato rounds were more than just a dish—they were a culinary hug, a reminder of the joy that simple ingredients can bring.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Chloe
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Description

Discover how to make easy Loaded Baked Potato Rounds with a crispy edge and creamy center. Perfect for gatherings, this recipe is a savory delight everyone will love!


Ingredients

  • 2 large russet potatoes, sliced into 1/2″ rounds
  • 5 slices beef bacon
  • 1 cup (240 ml) cheddar cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) sour cream
  • 3 green onions, green parts sliced
  • 2 tablespoon (30 ml) s butter, melted
  • Salt
  • Pepper


Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
  2. Cut the cleaned potatoes into slices approximately 1/2 inch thick, leaving the skins on.
  3. Cover a rimmed baking sheet with foil.
  4. Coat each potato slice with melted butter on both sides, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  5. Place in the oven and cook for 35 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through the cooking time.
  6. As the potatoes are baking, fry the beef bacon until it is very crispy, then let it cool, crumble, and put it aside.
  7. Once the potato rounds are tender when pierced with a fork, sprinkle each with about a tablespoon of grated cheddar cheese and some crumbled bacon.
  8. Put them back in the oven to allow the cheese to melt, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
  9. Take them out of the oven and add a spoonful of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced green onions on top.
  10. Serve right away.

Notes

  • Ensure potato slices are evenly buttered and spaced for crispy edgesnCook beef bacon on medium heat for uniform crispnessnBring cheddar cheese to room temp for quicker, even melting

Creating the Ultimate Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Fundamentals

Understanding the essentials of loaded baked potato rounds starts with choosing the right ingredients. Russet potatoes are the star, providing a sturdy base with their thick skin and starchy interior. Their texture becomes creamy when baked, making them ideal for this recipe. The choice of beef bacon adds a smoky, savory depth that complements the cheese’s richness.

The cheddar cheese is crucial—its sharpness cuts through the richness, creating a balanced flavor profile. A final touch of sour cream and green onions adds a refreshing contrast, enhancing the dish’s overall appeal. Each component plays a vital role in achieving the perfect loaded baked potato rounds.

Preparation/setup

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F. This temperature ensures that the potato rounds cook evenly, achieving a crispy exterior while maintaining a tender inside. Slice the potatoes into 1/2-inch rounds, keeping the skins on for added texture and flavor. A rimmed baking sheet lined with foil makes cleanup a breeze and prevents sticking.

Brush each potato slice with melted butter, sprinkling them with salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial as it enhances the natural flavors and aids in achieving a golden, crispy finish. Arrange the slices on the baking sheet, ensuring they lay flat for even cooking. While they bake, fry the beef bacon until crispy, then crumble it for a perfect topping.

Mastering the Art of Loaded Potato Rounds

Technique

The technique for flawless loaded baked potato rounds involves careful monitoring of the baking process. Flip the potato slices halfway through their 35-minute bake time to ensure even browning on both sides. This step is essential for achieving that sought-after crispy texture.

As the potatoes bake, prepare your toppings. Crumble the crispy beef bacon and grate the cheddar cheese, ensuring you have enough to generously cover each potato round. This preparation allows you to seamlessly transition from baking to assembly, ensuring the cheese melts perfectly.

Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Tips/tricks

For the best results, use freshly grated cheddar cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Additionally, keep an eye on the bacon as it fries; removing it from heat just before it turns too crispy allows it to cook a bit more as it cools, achieving the perfect crunch.

If you love creative comfort food, you’ll definitely want to try these fully loaded classic chili cheese dog casserole for a fun twist on classic flavors. Experiment with different cheese varieties like Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack to add a unique flavor twist to your potato rounds.

Perfecting Your Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Perfecting results

Perfecting loaded baked potato rounds means ensuring each bite is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Once the potatoes are tender, sprinkle each with a tablespoon of grated cheddar cheese and some crumbled bacon. Return them to the oven briefly—just 2-3 minutes—to melt the cheese and meld the flavors.

Adding the sour cream and green onions after baking preserves their fresh taste and texture, offering a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, cheesy potatoes. This final touch elevates your loaded baked potato rounds from delicious to unforgettable.

Troubleshooting/variations

If your rounds aren’t as crispy as desired, try increasing the oven temperature slightly or extending the bake time by a few minutes. Ensure the potato slices are evenly coated with butter, as this aids in crisping. For those looking to switch things up, consider adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or ancho chili powder for a hint of spice.

For more inspiration, check out these crispy cheese and bacon potatoes for another delightful take on these flavors. You can also explore creative variations like using turkey bacon or adding a drizzle of barbecue sauce for a smoky-sweet contrast.

Serving and Enjoying Your Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Serving/presentation

Presentation plays a pivotal role in the enjoyment of loaded baked potato rounds. Serve them on a large platter, allowing the vibrant colors of the cheddar, green onions, and golden potatoes to shine. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings, offering a visually appealing and flavorful centerpiece.

For a touch of elegance, consider arranging the potato rounds in a spiral pattern, garnishing with an extra sprinkle of green onions. This simple yet effective presentation ensures every guest can easily grab a piece of the deliciousness.

Pairings/storage

Pair your loaded baked potato rounds with a crisp green salad or a bowl of hearty soup for a complete meal. These potatoes also complement dishes like loaded baked potato bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, place the rounds on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. This method helps maintain their crisp texture, ensuring they taste just as delicious the next day.

For a creative spin, explore the delightful crispy baked parmesan zucchini rounds as a lighter accompaniment to your potato rounds.

Conclusion

Mastering loaded baked potato rounds involves a blend of simple ingredients and thoughtful technique. The combination of russet potatoes, cheddar cheese, and beef bacon creates a comforting dish that’s both satisfying and impressive. By following the outlined steps, you can achieve perfectly crispy, flavorful rounds every time.

Loaded baked potato rounds are versatile, easy to prepare, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them at a casual gathering or enjoying them as a cozy night-in treat, their deliciousness is undeniable. Embrace the joy of cooking and sharing these comforting rounds, creating cherished memories one bite at a time.

FAQs – Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Based on our recipe instructions, the total time to make Loaded Baked Potato Rounds is about 45 minutes. This includes 35 minutes of baking time for the potato slices and an additional 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese in the oven. Preparation time for slicing the potatoes and cooking the beef bacon is also included in this estimate.
You’ll need the following ingredients: 2 large russet potatoes, 5 slices of beef bacon, 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup of sour cream, 3 sliced green onions, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, salt, and pepper. These ingredients come together to create the delicious flavors of this dish.
While it’s best to serve Loaded Baked Potato Rounds immediately for optimal texture, you can prepare the components ahead. Slice and par-cook the potatoes, fry and crumble the beef bacon, and shred the cheese. Store them separately, then assemble and bake them just before serving for the freshest result.
To achieve crispy potato rounds, make sure to coat each slice evenly with melted butter and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake them in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet and flip them halfway through the cooking time. This helps them cook evenly and develop a nice crispy texture.
Yes, you can substitute beef bacon with turkey bacon or a vegetarian alternative like tempeh bacon if you prefer. Just ensure that whatever substitute you use is cooked until crispy, as this adds a delightful texture and flavor to the completed dish.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star