Sliced baked potatoes are simple and tasty. Imagine crispy edges with soft, fluffy insides, all seasoned just right! They are perfect as a side for any meal.
I love making these for dinner because they’re easy to prep. Just slice, season, and bake away. Plus, you can add your favorite toppings, like cheese or sour cream. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Russet potatoes are great for this dish because they have a fluffy texture when baked. However, red potatoes work fine too! If you’re looking for a healthier option, sweet potatoes can add a lovely sweetness.
Olive Oil: I recommend using extra virgin olive oil for its rich flavor. If you’re out, you can use melted butter or avocado oil as substitutes. Both will give your potatoes a nice crisp as they bake.
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powders add amazing flavor. If you prefer fresh garlic or onion, use minced versions instead, but reduce the amount slightly, as fresh can be more potent. You can also try paprika or Italian seasoning for a different kick.
Fresh Parsley: This adds color and freshness at the end. Feel free to swap it out for chives or even a sprinkle of dried herbs if fresh isn’t available.
Optional Toppings: Sour cream pairs wonderfully here, but Greek yogurt is a healthier substitute. For cheese, I love cheddar, but feel free to use your favorite melty cheese. Bacon bits can be swapped with crispy bits of tempeh for a vegetarian option, too!
How Do I Slice Potatoes Without Cutting All the Way Through?
Slicing potatoes correctly is key to achieving that crispy texture while keeping them intact. Using wooden spoons or chopsticks as guides really helps! Here’s a step-by-step approach:
- Place the potato on a stable cutting board.
- Lay one wooden spoon or chopstick on each side to act as a barrier.
- Slice down into the potato, aiming for thin slices (about 1/4 inch apart), stopping when the knife touches the wooden spoons. This method prevents you from slicing all the way through.
- Repeat for all potatoes, ensuring uniform slices for even cooking.
This technique not only looks impressive but allows the olive oil and seasonings to infuse between the slices, making every bite delightful!
How to Make Sliced Baked Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 medium-sized Russet or red potatoes
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Shredded cheese
- Crispy bacon bits
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 50-60 minutes to bake in the oven. So, total time is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It’s simple and delicious—perfect for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, turn on your oven and preheat it to 425°F (220°C). This step is super important, as it will help your potatoes cook evenly and get nice and crispy!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Once clean, pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Slice the Potatoes:
To slice the potatoes without cutting all the way through, place two wooden spoons or chopsticks on either side of the potato while it’s on a cutting board. This will act as a guide. Carefully slice the potato into thin, even slices, about 1/4 inch apart, stopping when you reach the wooden spoons. This keeps the potato intact!
4. Add Olive Oil:
Once all your potatoes are sliced, use a brush to coat each potato with olive oil, making sure to get the oil in between the slices. This will help everything get nice and crispy!
5. Season the Potatoes:
Now, it’s time to add some flavor! Generously sprinkle salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder all over the potatoes. Make sure to get the seasonings into the slices too for maximum taste!
6. Bake the Potatoes:
Place the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil so they don’t stick. Pop them into your preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and the insides are soft. Yum!
7. Cool and Garnish:
After baking, take the potatoes out of the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish them with the chopped fresh parsley and any additional toppings you like, such as sour cream, cheese, or bacon bits.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your warm, delicious sliced baked potatoes right away and enjoy this tasty treat with family and friends!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While Russet and red potatoes work best due to their texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or fingerling potatoes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the size and type of potatoes used, so check for doneness before removing them from the oven.
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you don’t have olive oil on hand, you can use melted butter, vegetable oil, or avocado oil as a substitute. Each will provide a slightly different flavor, but all will work well to help crisp the potatoes and enhance their taste!
How to Store Leftover Baked Potatoes
To store leftovers, place the potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help keep them crispy.
Can I Prepare These Potatoes in Advance?
Yes! You can slice and season the potatoes ahead of time. Just place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, just brush them with oil and pop them in the oven as directed!
