Baked Potato Bites

These adorable appetizers have all the flavor of a loaded baked potato

Our friend invited us over to watch the AFC Championship game (he's a lifelong Ravens fan), which was the perfect excuse to try out the baked potato bites from my Smitten Kitchen cookbook. This recipe is a cross between potato skins, potato chips, and nachos, and is really the ultimate football snack food. The potatoes are simply sliced, roasted until crisp, and sprinkled with toppings. I went for the classic loaded baked potato combo of Tillamook cheddar, bacon bits, sour cream (I actually substituted with Greek yogurt), and scallions - but you could definitely get creative with whatever toppings you like best. They were a hit at the party and might even be considered a good luck charm for the Ravens in the Superbowl.


Related Recipes:
- Garlic Hassleback Potatoes
- Sweet Potato Cakes with Creamy Herb Dip
- Potato Latkes


Baked Potato Bites:

• Slice 4 large Russet potatoes in 1/2" rounds and place in a large bowl.
• Drizzle with 2  tbsp. melted butter and season generously with salt and pepper.
• Line two large baking sheets with aluminum foil and coat with a non-stick spray.
• Arrange the potato slices on the baking sheets in a single layer and place in a 425F oven.
• Cook for 30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the bottom has browned, then flip them and place back in the oven for 5 minutes.
• Meanwhile, dice 5 slices of thick-cut bacon and place in a hot, dry skillet.
• Cook bacon bits until crispy, about 4 minutes, then remove with a slotted spoon and let drain on a paper towel.
• Take the potatoes out of the oven and sprinkle the tops of each with grated sharp cheddar cheese.*
• Place the potatoes back in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
• Take the potatoes back out of the oven and sprinkle with the bacon bits.
• Spoon a little sour cream on top of each potato and sprinkle with thinly sliced scallions.
• Potato bites can be eaten immediately or at room temperature.

Makes about 40 bites

*You'll need about 1 c. of grated cheese total.