Pan Baked Potato Halves
Creamy, cheesy potato halves with a crispy paprika topping, perfect as a side dish or snack for family gatherings and casual dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small glass bowl, melt oleo on High (max power) for 45 seconds.
- In a separate bowl, mix grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and white pepper.
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly.
- Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
- Dip the cut side of each potato half into the melted oleo, then into the cheese mixture.
- Place the potato halves, cut side up, in a 2-quart baking dish.
- Cook on High (max power) for 10 to 12 minutes or until tender.
- Let stand for 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle the cut side with paprika and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using butter instead of oleo. If you want to reduce calories, consider using a light cheese or nutritional yeast for a vegan option. Ensure potatoes are evenly cut for consistent cooking. You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as garlic powder or dried herbs, to elevate the dish. Pair it with a refreshing salad or a creamy dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious potato halves as a side dish to grilled meats or as a hearty appetizer. They pair beautifully with a tangy Cucumber Sandwich Filling for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside a mixed green salad or your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch or sour cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover potato halves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave for 1-2 minutes or in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. This will help retain their crispy texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pan Baked Potato Halves contains roughly 322 calories, with 15g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (274% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (127% of the Daily Value), and iron (118% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 560mg per serving (24% 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 prepare these potato halves in advance?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes and coat them in the oleo and cheese mixture a few hours ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. Just allow them to come to room temperature before cooking for even results.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Medium-sized russet or Yukon gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their fluffy texture when cooked. However, you can also use red potatoes for a waxier finish, which may hold their shape a bit better.
Can I add other toppings to these potato halves?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. Consider adding crumbled bacon, chopped chives, or even shredded cheese before baking for extra flavor. For a vegetarian twist, top with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
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).