Drunken Soldier Potatoes
Drunken Soldier Potatoes are a hearty, cheesy baked potato dish with a crispy golden crust. The crosswise slices create a unique presentation, infused with butter, Parmesan, and paprika. Perfect as comfort food or a flavorful side for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scrub the potatoes well without peeling them.
- Cut the potatoes crosswise into 1-inch slices and stagger them like drunken soldiers in a buttered 9 x 3-inch baking dish, leaning on each other.
- Pour melted butter over the potato slices, ensuring all surfaces are covered.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 to 1 1/4 hours until deeply golden brown and crisp.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, choose starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffy texture. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding minced garlic or fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme between the layers. You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with Gruyère or cheddar for a different flavor profile. Remember to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste as well, especially if using salted butter.
Serving Suggestions
These potatoes are perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. They pair beautifully with a fresh Broccoli-Pimento Salad or a light protein like grilled chicken. For a hearty meal, consider serving them alongside a Vegetarian Casserole for a satisfying vegetarian option that everyone will enjoy.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Drunken Soldier Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Drunken Soldier Potatoes contains roughly 296 calories, with 10g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (137% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and iron (61% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 17g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 prepare the potatoes in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes by slicing and layering them in the baking dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before pouring the melted butter and cheese on top.
What can I do if I don't have Parmesan cheese?
If Parmesan cheese isn't available, you can use Pecorino Romano for a saltier flavor or a mild cheese like mozzarella for a creamier texture. Another option is to mix different cheeses for a unique taste.
How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?
The potatoes are done when they are deeply golden brown and crisp on the outside. You can also check for tenderness by inserting a fork or knife into the center; it should go through easily when fully cooked.
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).