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- Cutting board and knife for slicing
- Large baking sheet
- Parchment paper (for easy cleanup)
- Pastry brush or spoon to apply oil
- Oven mitts for safe handling
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
- Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly, as you’ll be leaving the skin on for extra flavor and texture. Slice each potato into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Try to keep the slices uniform so they cook evenly.
- Season the Potatoes: Place the potato slices in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then add minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like paprika or dried herbs. Toss everything together until the slices are well coated.
- Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Spread the seasoned potato slices in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overlapping so they’ll get crispy edges.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and crispy around the edges. Flip the slices halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
- Add Finishing Touches: If you like, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the hot potato slices right after they come out of the oven. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and a fresh finish.
Optional Variations and Creative Additions
- Cheesy Potatoes: After flipping the potatoes halfway through baking, sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top of each slice. Return them to the oven to melt the cheese for an extra indulgent version.
- Add a Kick of Spice: Try sprinkling cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes with the other seasonings to give the potatoes a little heat.
- Herb Butter Drizzle: Melt some butter and mix it with fresh chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or chives. Drizzle this over the potatoes before serving for added flavor.
- Garlic-Parmesan Twist: Combine grated Parmesan with garlic powder and sprinkle it over the potatoes for a classic garlic-Parmesan finish that’s always a hit.
Serving Tips
Sliced baked potatoes make a fantastic side dish for almost any meal. Serve them with grilled chicken, steak, or fish for a balanced dinner. They also pair beautifully with burgers, sandwiches, or even breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs. For a fun twist, serve them as a party appetizer with a variety of dips, such as sour cream, ranch dressing, or even a zesty cheese sauce.
FAQs for Best Preparation and Storage Practices
- Can I make these potatoes ahead of time? Absolutely! You can slice and season the potatoes a few hours before baking. Keep them in the refrigerator, covered, until you’re ready to bake.
- What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat leftover potatoes in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
- Can I use other types of potatoes? Yes, you can use Yukon gold or red potatoes if you prefer. Keep in mind that different potatoes may vary slightly in texture, but the results will still be delicious.
- How should I store leftovers? Store any leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They make a great addition to breakfast hash the next morning!
Conclusion
These sliced baked potatoes are a delicious, easy-to-make side that’s both versatile and family-friendly. With their crispy edges, tender centers, and customizable flavors, they’re perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to holiday feasts. Whether you add cheese, spices, or fresh herbs, this recipe offers endless possibilities that will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy these tasty potato slices hot from the oven, and get ready for rave reviews!
