Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizes pantry staples like potatoes, cheese, and ground meat.
- Quick Preparation: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with different cheeses, herbs, or vegetarian options.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Appeals to both kids and adults, making it suitable for various occasions.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Russet potatoes
- Vegetable oil (can substitute with olive or canola oil)
- Salt and pepper
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Ground beef
- Italian seasoning
- Green onions, diced
- Sour cream, for dipping
Directions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Scrub the russet potatoes clean and slice them into approximately ½-inch thick rounds.
- Initial Baking: Arrange the potato slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly brush both sides with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Cook the Meat: While the potatoes are baking, cook the ground beef in a pan over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and season to taste.
- Enhance Flavor: After the initial baking, remove the potatoes from the oven and brush both sides with a small amount of the meat drippings for added flavor. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over each potato slice, followed by the cooked beef. Bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the potato slices with Italian seasoning and diced green onions. Serve warm with sour cream on the side for dipping.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 5 servings.
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or parsley before baking for added aroma.
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the toppings for some heat.
- Vegetarian: Omit the meat and top with sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover potato slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: These slices freeze well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.
- Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for a crispier texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well, though they may have a softer texture.
2. What other seasonings can I use?
Try paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, or a smoky barbecue seasoning for extra flavor.
3. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the potato slices in advance and add the toppings just before reheating.
4. How do I prevent the potatoes from getting soggy?
Make sure to bake them at a high temperature and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.
5. Can I use pre-cooked meat?
Absolutely! Leftover beef from tacos or other dishes can be a great shortcut.
6. What’s the best dipping sauce besides sour cream?
Ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or a spicy sriracha mayo are great alternatives.
7. Can I make this in an air fryer?
Yes, cook the potato slices at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway.
8. Can I use frozen potatoes?
Fresh potatoes work best, but if using frozen, thaw and pat them dry before baking.
9. Can I make these dairy-free?
Yes, use dairy-free cheese or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
10. What can I serve with baked potato slices?
They pair well with grilled meats, salads, or as a side for soups and sandwiches.
Conclusion
These baked potato slices are a simple yet flavorful dish that works as an appetizer, snack, or side. With crispy edges, melted cheese, and hearty toppings, they are sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re easy to customize to your taste preferences. Give them a try and enjoy a delicious twist on classic potatoes!
Baked Potato Slices
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- Author: Isabella
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these baked potato slices are a flavorful and versatile dish. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, seasoned beef, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning, they make the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
- 3–4 russet potatoes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive/canola oil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ lb ground beef
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 green onions, diced
- Sour cream, for dipping
Instructions
-
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Scrub and slice russet potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds.
-
Initial Baking:
- Arrange slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Lightly brush both sides with oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake for 25 minutes.
-
Cook the Meat:
- While potatoes bake, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned.
- Drain excess grease and season to taste.
-
Enhance Flavor:
- Remove potatoes from the oven and brush them with a small amount of beef drippings.
- Return to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes.
-
Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese over each slice, followed by cooked beef.
- Bake for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
-
Garnish & Serve:
- Sprinkle with Italian seasoning and diced green onions.
- Serve warm with sour cream for dipping.
Notes
- Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
- Herb Boost: Add rosemary, thyme, or parsley for extra aroma.
- Spicy Kick: Top with sliced jalapeños or cayenne pepper.
- Vegetarian Option: Use sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers instead of meat.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Appetizer | Side Dish | Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American