Potatoes are a beloved side dish worldwide, and cooking them sliced in the oven is an easy and tasty way to enjoy them. Oven-baked potato slices come out crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor. Whether you want a quick snack or a perfect side for dinner, this method is straightforward and versatile. Let’s dive into how you can cook sliced potatoes in the oven to perfection!
Why Oven-Baked Potato Slices?
Oven-baked potato slices are healthier than deep-fried versions since they use less oil, making them a great choice if you’re watching calories. They’re also incredibly easy to customize with your favorite herbs and spices to suit any meal. Plus, they’re kid-friendly and simple enough for beginners to master.
What You’ll Need
– Medium-sized potatoes (Russet, Yukon Gold, or red-skinned are great choices)
– Olive oil or your preferred cooking oil (vegetable, sunflower, canola, etc.)
– Salt and pepper
– Optional herbs and spices: garlic powder, onion granules, rosemary, parsley, paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for getting crispy edges while cooking the potatoes through evenly.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
– Wash your potatoes thoroughly. You can peel them if you prefer, but leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients.
– Slice the potatoes evenly into about 1/4-inch thick slices. Using a mandoline slicer can make this quicker and ensure uniform thickness, but a sharp knife works well too.
3. Season the Potato Slices
– Place the potato slices in a large bowl or a ziplock bag.
– Drizzle with olive oil (about 1-2 tablespoons per 4 medium potatoes).
– Add salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. Common choices include garlic powder, onion granules, rosemary, and parsley.
– Toss or shake the potatoes until each slice is coated evenly with oil and seasoning.
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet
– Line a baking tray with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
– Spread the potato slices in a single layer on the tray, making sure they don’t overlap. This helps them cook evenly and get crispy.
5. Bake Until Golden and Tender
– Place the tray in the oven on the middle rack.
– Bake for about 25-30 minutes. You can flip the slices halfway through to ensure even crispiness, but it’s not mandatory.
– For extra crispiness, you can broil the potatoes for 2-3 minutes at the end, but watch closely to avoid burning.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once the potatoes are golden brown and tender inside, remove them from the oven. Serve them hot as a side dish or with your favorite dip as a snack.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Potato Slices
– Use the right potato: Waxy or medium-starch potatoes like Yukon Gold or red-skinned potatoes hold their shape well and crisp nicely.
– Soak for crispiness: If you have time, soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat dry before baking.
– Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give each slice space to roast properly; crowded slices steam instead of crisp.
– Add fresh herbs at the end: Sprinkle parsley or chives after baking for a fresh burst of flavor.
– Try different oils: Olive oil is classic, but experimenting with avocado, sunflower, or even duck fat can add unique tastes.
Variations to Try
– Sweet Potato Slices: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes and season with cinnamon or smoked paprika.
– Garlic Parmesan: Toss slices with minced garlic and grated Parmesan before baking.
– Spicy Kick: Add chili powder or cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a little heat.
Oven-baked sliced potatoes are a simple, delicious way to enjoy this versatile vegetable. With minimal prep and easy ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s crispy, flavorful, and satisfying every time.
Enjoy your perfectly baked potato slices!