Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Introduction

Loaded Baked Potato Rounds are a fun, bite-sized twist on a classic baked potato. These crispy, golden rounds are topped with all the traditional baked potato toppings, like creamy sour cream, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and green onions. They make for the perfect appetizer, snack, or side dish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, serving dinner, or just craving a comforting treat, these loaded potato rounds are sure to impress.

I first made these when I wanted something new and exciting to serve at a family gathering, and they quickly became a crowd favorite. The combination of crispy, tender potato rounds and the delicious toppings is pure comfort food. You can customize the toppings to your liking, adding extras like cheddar, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing. What’s great about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Simply roast the potato rounds, top them with your favorite ingredients, and bake them to perfection. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a side dish, these loaded potato rounds are sure to be a hit!

Perfect for:

• Party appetizers
• Game day snacks
• Family dinners
• Side dishes for grilling
• Comfort food cravings

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Here’s why Loaded Baked Potato Rounds will become a favorite:

• Crispy and Golden: The potato rounds are baked to crispy perfection, offering a satisfying crunch in every bite.
• Loaded with Flavor: Topped with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions, these potato rounds are full of savory flavors that everyone loves.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese, jalapeños, or chives, to make them your own.
• Simple to Make: This easy recipe only requires a few ingredients and can be made in under an hour.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From casual family dinners to parties, these loaded potato rounds are always a crowd-pleaser.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 10g, Carbs: 30g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Loaded Baked Potato Rounds:

• 4 medium russet potatoes, washed and scrubbed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons green onions, sliced
• Optional: Chives, jalapeños, or any other favorite toppings

Ingredient Highlights

• Russet Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which gives the rounds a crispy exterior while remaining tender inside.
• Cheddar Cheese: The sharp, creamy flavor of cheddar cheese melts perfectly over the potato rounds, adding a delicious richness.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky, savory crunch that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sour cream and cheese.
• Sour Cream: Sour cream adds a cool, tangy element that balances the richness of the cheese and bacon.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Loaded Baked Potato Rounds:

Prepare the Potato Rounds:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
2. Slice the Potatoes: Slice the washed potatoes into ½-inch thick rounds. No need to peel the potatoes—leave the skin on for extra texture and flavor.
3. Season the Potatoes: Arrange the potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the potatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the potatoes to coat them evenly in the oil and seasonings.
4. Bake the Potatoes: Bake the potato rounds in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on both sides.

Add the Toppings:

5. Top with Cheese and Bacon: Once the potato rounds are crispy and baked, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the potato rounds. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Add Sour Cream and Green Onions: After baking, remove the potato rounds from the oven. Top each round with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced green onions. If you like, add any additional toppings like chives, jalapeños, or extra cheese.

Serve:

7. Serve Immediately: Serve the loaded baked potato rounds warm as an appetizer, snack, or side dish. Enjoy!

How to Serve Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Loaded Baked Potato Rounds are versatile and can be served in many ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve these loaded rounds at parties or gatherings as a delicious finger food.
• With Grilled Meats: These rounds make a perfect side dish to accompany grilled meats like steaks, burgers, or chicken.
• On a Snack Table: These bite-sized rounds are ideal for sharing with friends and family during a casual get-together or game day.
• With Salad: Pair these loaded potato rounds with a light salad for a more balanced meal.
• For Comfort Food Cravings: Enjoy them on their own for a comforting, satisfying snack or meal.

Additional Tips for Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Here are some tips to ensure your Loaded Baked Potato Rounds are perfect every time:

• Ensure Even Slicing: Slice the potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate and become uniformly crispy.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Arrange the potato slices in a single layer on the baking sheet with a little space between each round. Overcrowding the pan can lead to soggy potatoes.
• Use a Cooling Rack: If you have a cooling rack, place it on top of the baking sheet to help air circulate around the potato rounds while baking for extra crispiness.
• Customize the Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings. You can add shredded chicken, jalapeños, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra flavor.
• Keep an Eye on the Potatoes: Watch the potatoes carefully as they bake to prevent burning, especially when flipping them halfway through.

Recipe Variations for Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Here are 10 variations you can try for Loaded Baked Potato Rounds:

• Buffalo Loaded Potato Rounds: Top the potatoes with buffalo sauce, shredded chicken, and blue cheese for a spicy twist.
• Cheesy Garlic Potato Rounds: Sprinkle the rounds with garlic powder, melted butter, and extra shredded cheese before baking.
• Vegan Loaded Potato Rounds: Use dairy-free cheese, vegan sour cream, and crispy plant-based bacon for a vegan version.
• BBQ Loaded Potato Rounds: Swap the bacon for BBQ pulled pork or shredded chicken for a smoky, tangy flavor.
• Mexican-Style Loaded Potato Rounds: Top the potatoes with guacamole, salsa, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a Mexican-inspired twist.
• Mushroom and Swiss Potato Rounds: Add sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese for an earthy, savory variation.
• Pizza Loaded Potato Rounds: Top the rounds with marinara sauce, pepperoni, and mozzarella cheese for a pizza-inspired snack.
• Spinach and Artichoke Loaded Potato Rounds: Add a creamy spinach and artichoke dip topping for a rich, flavorful twist.
• Ranch Loaded Potato Rounds: Drizzle ranch dressing over the potato rounds instead of sour cream for a tangy alternative.
• Pesto Loaded Potato Rounds: Top with pesto sauce, roasted cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese for a fresh, Italian-inspired version.

Freezing and Storage for Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

• Freezing: To freeze these loaded potato rounds, first bake the rounds and allow them to cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until hot and crispy.
• Storage: Leftover loaded potato rounds can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best results.

Special Equipment for Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Loaded Baked Potato Rounds easier:

• Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will help you slice the potatoes evenly.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet is essential for baking the potato rounds to a crisp.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mats: These will prevent the potato rounds from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Cooling Rack (Optional): A cooling rack allows air to circulate around the potatoes, helping them crisp up evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions for Loaded Baked Potato Rounds

1. Can I use a different type of potato?
   While russet potatoes work best for crispy texture, you can also try Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier interior.
2. Can I make these potato rounds in advance?
   You can bake the potato rounds ahead of time, then add the toppings and reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.
3. Can I freeze the loaded potato rounds?
   Yes, freeze the baked rounds before adding the toppings, then assemble and bake them when you’re ready to serve.
4. How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming soggy?
   Make sure to bake the potato rounds in a single layer, and don’t overcrowd the pan. This will help them stay crispy.
5. Can I make these rounds without bacon?
   Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and substitute with other toppings, like sautéed mushrooms or grilled chicken.

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Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato Rounds are a delicious and customizable dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy texture, savory toppings, and endless flavor possibilities, these potato rounds are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with everyone!

This recipe is as fun to prepare as it is to eat, making it ideal for casual gatherings, family meals, or even game day. You can load them up with your favorite toppings—cheese, sour cream, bacon, and chives—or get creative with your own combinations for a dish that everyone will enjoy.

I’d love to see how your Loaded Baked Potato Rounds turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!