Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying side dish that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! These mini baked potatoes are perfect for a weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer, or even a complete healthy meal. They're incredibly versatile, customizable, and surprisingly quick to prepare, making them a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes. Get ready to experience the comforting goodness of perfectly baked potatoes, in bite-sized perfection!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound small red potatoes (about 8-10), scrubbed clean
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Your favorite toppings! (See suggestions below)
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the small red potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. No need to peel them – the skins add flavor and nutrients!
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Toss & Season: In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder (if using), and paprika (if using). Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated.
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Bake: Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The cooking time may vary depending on the size of your potatoes.
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Top & Serve: Once cooked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Then, it's time for the fun part: add your favorite toppings!
Delicious Topping Suggestions:
- Classic: Butter, sour cream, chives
- Spicy: Chili, shredded cheese, jalapenos
- Healthy: Greek yogurt, salsa, avocado
- Cheesy: Cheddar cheese, bacon bits
- Herby: Rosemary, thyme, parsley
Tips for Perfect Mini Baked Potatoes:
- Evenly sized potatoes: Using similarly sized potatoes ensures they bake evenly.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Give the potatoes enough space to brown and crisp.
- Check for doneness: Use a fork to test the potatoes for tenderness.
- Get creative with toppings: The possibilities are endless!
Variations:
- Roasted Garlic Potatoes: Roast a whole head of garlic alongside the potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
- Herb-Roasted Potatoes: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.
- Spicy Mini Baked Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the seasoning.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the size of the potatoes and the toppings used. A single mini baked potato (approximately 1/8 of a pound) without toppings will contain roughly:
- Calories: 80-100
- Protein: 2-3g
- Carbohydrates: 18-20g
- Fiber: 2-3g
These mini baked potatoes are a wonderful addition to any meal, offering a simple yet satisfying side dish packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy experimenting with different seasonings and toppings to create your perfect mini baked potato! They're perfect for quick dinner ideas, healthy meals, or a simple yet delicious homemade cooking experience. This easy recipe is sure to become a family favorite!