- olive oil
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped green onions, optional
3–4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled, optional
Sour cream or ranch dressing, for serving
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
You probably already have everything required:
A sharp knife
Cutting board
Large baking sheet
Parchment paper or cooking spray
Mixing bowl
Spatula
Measuring spoons
Box grater, if shredding your own cheese
A large baking sheet is particularly helpful because the potatoes roast better
when they’re spread out instead of crowded together.
Ingredient Substitutions and Additions
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can change it to suit your taste.
Try Different Cheeses
Cheddar is a classic choice, but you have plenty of options.
Monterey Jack: Mild and creamy.
Mozzarella: Deliciously stretchy.
Pepper Jack: Adds a little spice.
Colby Jack: Smooth, mild, and family-friendly.
Parmesan: Adds a salty, savory finish when combined with another melting cheese.
For the best balance of flavor and texture, try combining sharp cheddar withMonterey Jack.
Add Bacon
Cooked, crumbled bacon makes these rounds taste like miniature loaded potatoes.
Sprinkle it over the cheese before the final baking stage, or add it afterward for a little extra texture.
Add Garlic and Herbs
Garlic powder is easy, but you can also use a little onion powder, dried thyme, or Italian seasoning.
Finish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color.
Make Them Spicy
Add cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or pepper Jack cheese.
You can also serve them with a