Cheesy Baked Potato Rounds

Ingredients

For the potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika

For the toppings:

• ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Optional: chopped chives for garnish

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato rounds with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika until well coated.
3. Arrange on baking sheet: Lay the seasoned potato rounds in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not overlap to ensure even cooking.
4. Bake the potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and crispy. Flip the potato rounds halfway through baking to ensure both sides are evenly browned.
5. Add the cheese: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over the potato rounds. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and serve: Once the cheese has melted, remove the potato rounds from the oven and let them cool slightly. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and optional chives for added flavor and color. Serve the cheesy potato rounds warm and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Potato Rounds

• Choose the right potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe due to their starchy texture.
• Experiment with cheeses: Try different types of cheese like Gouda, Parmesan, or Monterey Jack for unique flavors.
• Crispier rounds: For extra crispy rounds, soak the potato slices in cold water for 30 minutes before seasoning and baking. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels before proceeding.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these cheesy potato rounds as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. They pair well with sour cream, ranch dressing, or a spicy aioli for added flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

• Potatoes: Rich in potassium, vitamins C and B6, and dietary fiber, providing complex carbohydrates for energy.
• Cheese: A great source of protein and calcium, contributing to bone health and muscle repair.
• Herbs: Fresh parsley and chives add vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

In Summary

Cheesy baked potato rounds are a versatile and crowd-pleasing dish suitable for any occasion. Their crispy edges, gooey cheese topping, and flavorful seasoning make them irresistible. Follow this recipe for a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy.