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How to Make Cheesy Potato Stacks:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Next, wash and peel the potatoes. Using a sharp knife or a mandolin slicer, slice the potatoes as thinly as possible, about 1/8-inch thick. The thinner the slices, the better the stacks will crisp up in the oven.
Once the potatoes are sliced, place them in a large bowl of water to prevent browning. When you’re ready to assemble, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, olive oil, and minced garlic. Stir until the garlic is evenly distributed. This will give the potatoes a wonderful garlic flavor as they bake.
Step 3: Assemble the Stacks
Brush a muffin tin or a mini cupcake pan with a little bit of the garlic butter mixture to prevent the potatoes from sticking. Begin stacking the potato slices, one by one, into each muffin cup. Alternate between adding a slice of potato and sprinkling a small amount of shredded cheddar cheese in between the layers. You can also sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using) at each layer for extra flavor.
Continue stacking until the muffin cups are filled to the top. Press down gently on the stacks to compact them slightly and ensure they hold their shape during baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Drizzle the remaining garlic butter mixture over the top of the potato stacks, ensuring each stack gets a nice coating. This will help them turn golden and crispy as they bake.
Place the muffin tin in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the tops of the stacks are crispy and golden brown. You can insert a fork into the center of a stack to check for doneness; it should easily slide in if the potatoes are cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cheesy potato stacks are done baking, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Use a small spoon or knife to carefully lift the stacks out of the muffin tin. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
Serve these cheesy potato stacks as a side dish with your favorite main course, or enjoy them on their own as a savory snack. Either way, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Potato Stacks
1. Perfect Texture
One of the best parts about these cheesy potato stacks is the texture. The thin potato slices cook perfectly, creating a crispy exterior while the inside stays soft and tender. The cheese melts beautifully between the layers, making every bite a perfect combination of crunch and creaminess.
2. Flavor Packed
The combination of garlic, butter, and cheese creates an irresistible flavor that’s rich, savory, and satisfying. Add a sprinkle of dried thyme for an earthy flavor, and the result is a dish that’s bursting with goodness.
3. Easy to Make
This recipe is surprisingly simple to make despite its impressive look. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have these cheesy potato stacks ready to bake in no time.
4. Customizable
Feel free to get creative with your cheesy potato stacks! You can experiment with different types of cheese, add bacon bits, or even layer in some sautéed onions for extra flavor. For a spicy twist, sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or jalapeños for a bit of heat.
Serving Suggestions
These cheesy potato stacks are versatile and pair well with a variety of main dishes. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled Steak or Chicken: The richness of the cheesy potato stacks complements the smoky flavors of grilled meats.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair these stacks with roasted or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- BBQ Ribs: The crispy, cheesy potatoes make an excellent side to accompany tender, juicy ribs.
- Salad: Add a fresh salad with greens like spinach or arugula to balance out the richness of the potatoes.
Conclusion
Cheesy Potato Stacks are the ultimate side dish to satisfy your cravings for crispy, cheesy comfort food. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is easy to make, customizable, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or a holiday gathering, these cheesy potato stacks are sure to be a hit!
So, next time you’re looking for a delicious and fun twist on traditional mashed potatoes or baked potatoes, try making these cheesy potato stacks. They’re guaranteed to be a favorite that everyone will rave about!
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