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If you’re craving a comfort food that feels like a warm hug, then this Loaded Sliced Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. Each tender, golden potato slice gets revelatory layers of crispy bacon, melty cheddar, and fresh green onions that come together to create a perfectly balanced bite every time. It’s the kind of dish that effortlessly elevates your weeknight dinner or makes any gathering an instant crowd-pleaser. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself coming back for more of its cheesy, smoky, and fresh flavors in every delicious mouthful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color. With just a handful of pantry staples, you’re set to make these irresistible Loaded Sliced Baked Potatoes that satisfy every craving.
- 3 large russet potatoes: Their starchy flesh holds up beautifully when sliced and baked, creating a crispy exterior and fluffy inside.
- 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable, canola, or olive oil): Essential for coating the potatoes to achieve a golden brown and perfectly crisp texture.
- Salt and pepper to taste: The simplest seasoning that enhances the natural potato flavor and balances the other rich toppings.
- 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded): Sharp and melty, cheddar cheese adds indulgent creaminess and that irresistible golden finish.
- 6 slices bacon (uncooked): Crispy bacon delivers smoky crunch and salty goodness that make the dish truly loaded.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning blend: A fragrant mix of herbs that introduces a subtle herbaceous note to the potatoes.
- 2 green onions (diced): Their fresh, slightly pungent crunch cuts through the richness for a bright burst of flavor.
How to Make Loaded Sliced Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This warm start is important to ensure your potatoes bake evenly and get that perfect crisp edge we’re aiming for.
Step 2: Slice and Season the Potatoes
Carefully slice your large russet potatoes into roughly ¾-inch thick rounds—thick enough to hold toppings but thin enough to cook all the way through. Arrange these slices in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Brush both sides of each potato generously with oil, then season with salt and pepper. This simple step locks in moisture and creates the ideal crispy texture as they bake.
Step 3: The First Round of Baking
Pop your potatoes into the oven and bake for 25 minutes. This initial baking softens the potato slices while building a golden crust that will stand up perfectly to the toppings.
Step 4: Crispy Bacon Magic
While your potatoes bake, it’s bacon time. Cook six slices over low heat in a frying pan, patiently turning them so they cook evenly and develop that irresistible crisp texture without burning. Once done, place them on a paper towel to cool, then crumble them up. Don’t toss the bacon drippings—they’ll add another layer of smoky richness to your potatoes.
Step 5: Brush with Bacon Drippings
Pull the potatoes out of the oven and give every slice a light brush of those precious bacon drippings. This little touch infuses smoky flavor deep into the crispy surfaces before the next bake.
Step 6: Continue Baking for Deeper Flavor
Return the potatoes to the oven for an additional 10 minutes. This step ensures the bacon oil seeps into the potatoes, adding extra layers of deliciousness and crispiness.
Step 7: Add Cheese and Bacon Toppings
Now the real indulgence begins. Scatter shredded cheddar and the crumbled bacon generously over each potato slice. Slide the tray back into the oven to bake for about 5 minutes or until the cheese melts into gooey, golden perfection.
Step 8: Finish with Fresh Herbs and Onions
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the potatoes with the aromatic Italian seasoning blend and fresh diced green onions. These final touches brighten each bite and bring that wonderful balance everyone will love.
Step 9: Serve It Up
Serve the Loaded Sliced Baked Potatoes with a dollop of cool, tangy sour cream while they’re still warm. You’ll get that perfect harmony of hot, melty, crispy, and fresh flavors that will make everyone reach for seconds.
How to Serve Loaded Sliced Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe
Garnishes
Top these potatolicious beauties with a scoop of sour cream to add creamy tanginess that complements the cheddar and bacon perfectly. Fresh chives or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also add an extra pop of color and flavor.
Side Dishes
Because these Loaded Sliced Baked Potatoes are so satisfying, they pair wonderfully with lighter sides like crisp garden salad or roasted veggies. Alternatively, serve alongside grilled chicken or steak to complete a hearty, comforting meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party, arrange your loaded potato slices on a large wooden board with bowls of extra toppings on the side—think sour cream, sliced jalapeños, or even a drizzle of hot sauce for a fun DIY snack bar. You can also layer the slices in a casserole dish, sprinkle toppings between layers, and bake for an easy communal dish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, though you might want to refresh the crispiness before serving again.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked potato slices once cooled by laying them flat on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, making them a fantastic ready-to-go comfort snack.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat the stored Loaded Sliced Baked Potatoes in a 350-degree oven until warmed through and the cheese is bubbly again, about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that delightful crispness.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will give the dish a slightly sweeter and earthier flavor. Just keep an eye on the baking time since sweet potato slices might cook a bit faster.
Is it necessary to use bacon drippings?
While optional, using bacon drippings really boosts the smoky richness and helps crisp up the potatoes beautifully. If you want a lighter version, you can skip this step and use extra oil instead.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can slice and season the potatoes the day before, but it’s best to bake them fresh to maintain optimum crispness and flavor. Pre-cook the bacon in advance to save time on the day.
What cheese alternatives work well for this recipe?
Cheddar is classic, but feel free to try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a smoked gouda for a fun twist. Just choose a melting cheese for the best gooey results.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly?
Simply omit the bacon and bacon drippings, and add extra cheese or roasted veggies as toppings. For smoky flavor, a dash of smoked paprika or smoked salt works wonders.
Final Thoughts
If comfort food has a name, it’s definitely this Loaded Sliced Baked Potatoes with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onions Recipe. Every bite bursts with cozy flavors, crispy textures, and a freshness that keeps you coming back. I can’t wait for you to gather your ingredients and make this crowd-pleaser for your friends and family. It’s simple, satisfying, and absolutely unforgettable—happy cooking!
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