Loaded Cheesy Bacon Potato Rounds

Description

Loaded Cheesy Bacon Potato Rounds are the ultimate crowd-pleasing appetizer or side dish, combining crispy roasted potatoes with gooey melted cheddar cheese and crunchy bacon. Every bite is packed with savory flavor, making these potato rounds perfect for game days, family dinners, barbecues, potlucks, or holiday gatherings. Thick slices of russet potatoes are seasoned with simple spices and roasted until golden and tender before being topped with plenty of sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. A final bake melts the cheese into a rich, bubbly topping that pairs perfectly with the crispy potato edges. Finish them with green onions, sour cream, or fresh parsley for a restaurant-quality presentation. They’re easy to prepare, use simple pantry ingredients, and disappear quickly whenever they’re served. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying snack, an easy appetizer, or a delicious side dish for burgers, grilled chicken, or steak, these Loaded Cheesy Bacon Potato Rounds are guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Ingredients For the Potato Rounds

• 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed clean
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Topping

• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled

Optional Garnish

• Chopped green onions
• Fresh parsley
• Sour cream
• Ranch dressing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. Slice the potatoes into ¾-inch thick rounds.
3. Pat the potato slices dry with paper towels.
4. In a large bowl, toss the potato rounds with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
5. Arrange the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Roast for 25 minutes.
7. Carefully flip each potato round and bake for another 15–20 minutes until golden brown and fork tender.
8. Remove the baking sheet from the oven.
9. Sprinkle each potato round generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
10. Top with the crispy crumbled bacon.
11. Return the baking sheet to the oven for 3–5 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
12. Remove from the oven and allow the potatoes to cool for 2–3 minutes.
13. Garnish with chopped green onions, parsley, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
14. Serve immediately while hot and cheesy.

Tips

• Russet potatoes produce the crispiest edges.
• Shred your own cheese for smoother melting.
• Cook the bacon until extra crispy so it stays crunchy after baking.
• Add diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
• Sprinkle a little Parmesan cheese over the potatoes before the final bake for even more flavor.
• Serve with ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or chipotle mayo for dipping.
• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore the crispy texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour

Servings: 6

Q&A

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes. Roast the potato rounds ahead of time, then add the cheese and bacon just before serving and bake for a few minutes until hot.

Can I use another cheese?
Absolutely. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend all work wonderfully.

Can I make these in an air fryer?
Yes. Air fry the seasoned potato rounds at 390°F (200°C) for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add the cheese and bacon during the last 2–3 minutes.

What can I serve with Loaded Cheesy Bacon Potato Rounds?
They’re delicious alongside burgers, grilled chicken, steak, barbecue ribs, pulled pork, sandwiches, or served as a party appetizer with your favorite dipping sauces.

Nutrition (Approx. Per Serving)

• Calories: 395
• Protein: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Cholesterol: 45mg