Crispy Cheesy Potato Rounds

These Crispy Cheesy Potato Rounds are golden and crunchy on the outside, tender in the center, and covered with delicious melted cheese. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, side dish, or party food—and they’re incredibly easy to make.

Ingredients

• 4 medium russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.

Slice them into rounds approximately ¼-inch thick.

Try to keep the slices as evenly sized as possible so they cook at the same rate.

2. Dry the Potato Slices

Place the potato rounds on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel.

Pat them thoroughly dry.

Removing excess moisture helps the edges become crisp and golden.

3. Season the Potatoes

Place the potato slices in a large bowl.

Add olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.

Toss until every slice is evenly coated.

4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.

Arrange the potato rounds in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece.

Don’t overlap them.

5. First Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping the potato rounds halfway through.

Continue baking until they’re tender and beginning to turn golden around the edges.

6. Add the Cheese

Remove the baking sheet from the oven.

Sprinkle each potato round with a mixture of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan.

Try to keep the cheese mostly on the potatoes rather than on the empty spaces around them.

7. Bake Again

Return the tray to the oven.

Bake for another 5–8 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted and bubbling.

For extra-browned cheese, switch to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch carefully because the cheese can brown quickly.

8. Finish and Serve

Remove the potato rounds from the oven.

Let them cool for 2–3 minutes so the cheese can set slightly.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Delicious Dipping Sauces

Try serving them with:

• Sour cream
• Ranch dressing
• Garlic aioli
• Spicy mayonnaise
• Salsa
• Nacho cheese sauce
• Chipotle sauce

Tips for Extra-Crispy Potato Rounds

Slice evenly: Consistent thickness ensures even cooking.

Dry them well: This is one of the easiest ways to improve crispiness.

Don’t overcrowd the pan: Give the potatoes plenty of room for hot air to circulate.

Use freshly grated cheese: It melts beautifully and gives a better texture.

Want them even crispier? Soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for about 20–30 minutes, then drain and dry them extremely well before seasoning.

Air Fryer Method

For an air-fryer version, arrange the seasoned potato rounds in a single layer.

Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 12–16 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Add the cheese during the final 2–3 minutes and cook until melted and golden.

Crispy golden potato edges, tender centers, and a gooey blanket of melted cheese make these potato rounds an irresistible snack that disappears fast!