Baked Shoestring Potatoes
Baked shoestring potatoes offer a crispy, cheesy treat with a rich creaminess, perfect as a side or snack. Thinly sliced potatoes are seasoned with cheese, parsley, and butter, then baked to perfection. This dish appeals to those craving comfort food with a crunchy, flavorful twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut a 24-inch length of heavy-duty aluminum foil.
- Slice the potatoes into thin lengthwise strips as for French fries and place them just off center on the foil.
- Dot the potatoes with butter, then sprinkle with salt, pepper, grated cheese, and chopped parsley.
- Pull up the edges of the foil, then pour the cream over the potatoes.
- Fold the foil to enclose the potatoes securely.
- Place the foil packet on a shallow pan and bake in a very hot oven at 450°F for about 45 minutes to 1 hour or until done.
- Fold back the edges of the foil and sprinkle with extra chopped parsley if desired before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, soak the sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before baking to remove excess starch. If you don’t have sharp processed cheese, cheddar or mozzarella can be substituted for a different flavor. Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth. Consider using olive oil instead of butter for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these baked shoestring potatoes as a delicious side dish with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with Lemon Tarts for a delightful meal experience. For a complete vegetarian meal, consider adding a fresh salad or a bowl of soup alongside.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover baked shoestring potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and slightly crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Shoestring Potatoes contains roughly 314 calories, with 11g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (90% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (65% of the Daily Value), and potassium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1907mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use other varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but keep in mind that baking times may vary slightly. Starchy potatoes like Russets will give you a fluffier interior, while waxy potatoes will be creamier.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes and assemble the foil packets in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just remember to increase the baking time slightly if they are cold when you put them in the oven.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper over the potatoes before baking. Alternatively, you could mix in some diced jalapeños or drizzle a spicy sauce on top after baking for an extra kick.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).