Loaded Baked Potato Slices
Crispy potato rounds topped with cheddar cheese and turkey bacon, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
For the Potato Rounds
- 4 large large Russet potatoes Choose firm, similar-sized tubers
- 3/4 teaspoon salt Adjust to taste
- 3/4 teaspoon black pepper Freshly cracked for best flavor
- 2 tablespoons reserved pan drippings From cooked turkey bacon
For the Toppings
- 6 slices turkey bacon Rendered for flavor
- 8 oz block sharp cheddar cheese, grated About 2 cups
- 3 each green onions, thinly sliced For garnish
- Sour cream or ranch, for serving
- Finishing salt to taste (fleur de sel recommended)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lay the turkey bacon slices on the sheet and bake for 20 minutes or until crispy. Remove turkey bacon and set on paper towels to drain. Reserve 2 tablespoons of pan drippings from the pan.
- While the turkey bacon cooks, scrub the potatoes and slice them into 1/2-inch rounds. Place rounds in a large bowl.
- Add 3/4 teaspoon salt and 3/4 teaspoon freshly cracked pepper to the bowl. Pour in the reserved pan drippings and toss so each round is evenly coated.
Roasting
- Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Arrange potato slices on the lined baking sheet, about 1 inch apart. Roast for 20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, shred the cheddar, slice the green onions, and dice the cooked turkey bacon.
Topping and Serving
- Remove potatoes from the oven and lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Top each round with about 1 tablespoon shredded cheddar and a generous pinch of diced turkey bacon.
- Return to the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, sprinkle sliced green onions and finishing salt over the top. Serve warm with sour cream or ranch for dipping.
Notes
For best results, use a mandoline for even slices, don't overcrowd the pan, and save the pan drippings for flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses and toppings or make them vegetarian by replacing turkey bacon with roasted mushrooms.