Loaded Potato Slices Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and loaded with flavor, these Loaded Potato Slices are just what you need! Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and topped with gooey melted cheese, savory turkey bacon, and fresh chives—this recipe is perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious appetizer or side dish ready in no time.

Ingredients for Loaded Potato Slices

To make the best Loaded Potato Slices, you need just a handful of basic ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s everything you’ll need:

• 3 Russet Potatoes – Russets are perfect for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which results in crispy slices.
• ⅓ cup Melted Butter – Adds a rich flavor and helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven.
• Salt and pepper – For seasoning the potato slices.
• 2 cups Shredded Cheese – You can use cheddar, a blend of cheeses, or your favorite type of cheese.
• 3 slices Cooked Turkey Bacon – Cut into chunks for added flavor without the heaviness of regular bacon.
• Fine-cut chives or green onions – Fresh and light, they add a bright pop of flavor.

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Choosing the Right Potatoes

Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because of their high starch content and low moisture. They create the perfect crispy exterior while remaining soft and fluffy on the inside. When slicing the potatoes, aim for a thickness of about 1/2 to 3/4 inch. Too thin, and they may dry out; too thick, and they won’t cook through properly.

How to Prepare Loaded Potato Slices: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking.
2. Cook the Turkey Bacon: Gently cook 3 slices of turkey bacon until crispy. Once done, let them cool slightly and cut them into bite-sized chunks.
3. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly, as you’ll leave the skins on for extra texture. Slice the potatoes into thick chips, around 1/2 to 3/4 inch in thickness. This thickness allows for a crispy outside while maintaining a soft center.
4. Melt the Butter: In a small bowl, melt ⅓ cup of butter. Brush each potato slice generously on both sides with the melted butter.
5. Season: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the buttered potato slices to taste.
6. Bake the Potatoes: Place the potato slices on a prepared baking sheet lined with foil and non-stick spray. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the edges start to crisp and the centers are tender.
7. Add the Toppings: Once the potatoes are cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Top each slice with shredded cheese, turkey bacon chunks, and a sprinkle of chives.
8. Return to the Oven: Pop the tray back into the oven for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
9. Serve Hot: Transfer the loaded potato slices to a serving platter, and enjoy them warm for the best flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not slicing the potatoes evenly: Ensure the potato slices are all the same thickness to prevent uneven cooking.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Leave space between the potato slices so they can crisp up properly. Overcrowding leads to steaming rather than roasting.
• Forgetting to flip: Halfway through baking, flipping the slices ensures both sides crisp up evenly.

Adding Flavor to Your Loaded Potato Slices

The beauty of these Loaded Potato Slices lies in their simplicity, but there are plenty of ways to enhance their flavor. Here are a few ideas:

• Garlic butter: Add minced garlic to the melted butter before brushing the potatoes for a delicious garlic flavor.
• Extra spices: Sprinkle paprika, cayenne pepper, or onion powder along with the salt and pepper for an extra kick of flavor.
• Cheese blend: Use a combination of cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack for a more complex cheesy flavor.

Presentation and Serving Tips

For a stunning presentation, arrange the loaded potato slices on a large platter and garnish them with an extra sprinkle of chives or green onions. You can serve them with a side of sour cream or ranch dressing for dipping, which adds a tangy contrast to the cheesy potatoes. These potato slices are a versatile dish that pairs well with almost any meal, from grilled chicken to steak.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To make these Loaded Potato Slices, you won’t need much, just a few essential tools:

• Baking sheet: A large, flat sheet pan for baking the potato slices.
• Pastry brush: To brush the melted butter evenly over each slice.
• Sharp knife: For slicing the potatoes into even thickness.
• Aluminum foil: To line the baking sheet for easy clean-up.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), store the Loaded Potato Slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the potatoes soggy.

Recipe Variations and Swaps

• Different cheeses: Swap cheddar for gouda, pepper jack, or blue cheese for a stronger flavor.
• Add veggies: You can add finely chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Loaded Potato Slices FAQ

Can I make these potato slices in advance?
Yes, you can slice and bake the potatoes ahead of time, then add the toppings and finish baking right before serving.

What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is the most common choice, but you can experiment with any cheese that melts well, like mozzarella or gouda.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Yes, but sweet potatoes will be softer and slightly sweeter. Adjust the baking time accordingly.

Loaded Potato Slices Recipe Tips

• For extra crispiness, after brushing with butter, bake the potatoes on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows the hot air to circulate around the slices, crisping them on both sides.
• Want to add more crunch? After baking, broil the potato slices for 1-2 minutes to get the cheese and edges golden and crispy.

Conclusion

These Loaded Potato Slices are a surefire way to satisfy any craving for something cheesy, savory, and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply need a delicious side dish, this recipe delivers every time. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can tweak it to your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share it with friends or family! If you loved it, make sure to subscribe to the blog for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes just like this one. Happy cooking!

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