Crispy Baked Cheese Potato Rounds (Rondelles de Pommes de Terre au Four au Fromage)

A delicious and elegant side dish or appetizer, these golden potato rounds are topped with melted cheese and herbs for a crispy, gooey bite. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in!

📝 Ingredients

*(Serves 4-6)*

• 4 medium Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (evenly sized)

• 2 tbsp Olive oil (or melted butter)

• 1 tsp Garlic powder

• 1 tsp Paprika (smoked or sweet)

• ½ tsp Salt (or to taste)

• ½ tsp Black pepper

• 1 ½ cups Shredded cheese (Gruyère, Cheddar, or Mozzarella work well)

• 2 tbsp Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)

• Optional toppings:

  • Crumbled bacon

  • Sour cream or crème fraîche

  • Thinly sliced green onions

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the Potatoes

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

• Wash and scrub potatoes (peeling optional). Slice into ¼-inch (0.6 cm) thick rounds.

• Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture for crispiness.

2️⃣ Season & First Bake

• In a bowl, toss potato rounds with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

• Arrange in a single layer on the baking sheet.

• Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway, until slightly golden.

3️⃣ Add Cheese & Final Bake

• Remove from oven and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over each round.

• Return to oven for 5-7 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.

• Optional: Broil for 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness (watch closely!).

4️⃣ Garnish & Serve

• Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives while warm.

• Serve with sour cream, bacon bits, or green onions if desired.

✨ Tips for Perfection

✔ Uniform slices ensure even cooking (use a mandoline if available).
✔ Dry potatoes well for maximum crispiness.
✔ Experiment with cheeses – try Parmesan, Gouda, or a blend!
✔ Make it spicy with a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

• As an appetizer: Pair with a garlic aioli or spicy mayo dip.

• As a side: Great with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or a fresh salad.

• For brunch: Top with a fried egg for a hearty twist!

⏲ Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to retain crispiness (microwaving makes them soft).

Enjoy these cheesy, crispy potato rounds – a simple yet impressive dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser! 😋🧀🥔