Sliced Baked Potatoes
Sliced baked potatoes are a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with almost any meal. Crispy on the edges and tender in the center, these potatoes are seasoned generously and baked to golden perfection. They are easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable, making them a favorite for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
4 medium potatoes (russet or Yukon gold work best)
3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
Optional toppings: grated cheese, chopped parsley, sour cream, or chives
Preparation
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Leave the skins on for extra texture and flavor. Slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds, keeping them as even as possible so they cook evenly.
Place the potato slices in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, then add garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and herbs. Toss gently until all slices are well coated.
Arrange the potato slices in a single layer on the prepared baking dish. Slight overlapping is fine, but avoid stacking them too much to ensure even browning.
Baking
Bake uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through cooking. The potatoes should be golden brown on the edges and fork-tender in the center.
For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Serving
Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot as a side dish with chicken, steak, fish, or vegetables.
Optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or a drizzle of garlic butter can be added just before serving for extra flavor.
Tips for Best Results
Slice potatoes evenly for consistent cooking.
Do not overcrowd the pan to allow proper crisping.
Flip halfway through baking for even browning.
Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
Variations
Add grated Parmesan cheese during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
Sprinkle with chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Add sliced onions or bell peppers for extra texture and sweetness.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
Final Thoughts
Sliced baked potatoes are a versatile and comforting dish that delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Crispy, tender, and endlessly adaptable, they are sure to become a regular addition to your meal rotation.