Loaded Baked Potato Rounds with Melted Cheese and Bacon (Print version)

Crisp baked potato rounds topped with melted cheddar, Monterey Jack, bacon, sour cream, and chives.

# Ingredients:

For the potatoes

01 - 2 lb (900 g) medium red potatoes, scrubbed
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
05 - 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
06 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the toppings

07 - 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
08 - 3/4 cup (85 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
09 - 3/4 cup (85 g) shredded Monterey Jack cheese
10 - 1/2 cup (120 g) sour cream, for serving
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two sheet pans with parchment paper or foil and lightly coat with cooking spray.
02 - Cut the potatoes into even 1/4-inch rounds. Keep the slices close in thickness so they finish at the same time.
03 - Place the slices in a pot of cold salted water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes, just until slightly tender. Drain and pat both sides very dry.
04 - Mix the melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush both sides of the potato rounds and arrange in a single layer. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip and bake 8-10 minutes more until golden at the edges.
05 - Top each round with cheddar, Monterey Jack, and crumbled bacon. Return to the oven for 4-6 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
06 - Transfer to a platter. Add small spoonfuls of sour cream and sprinkle with chives or green onions. Serve right away.

# Good to know:

01 - Best served hot while the cheese is melted.
02 - Parboiled potato slices can be dried and chilled earlier in the day.
03 - Makes about 24 potato rounds, depending on potato size.