Rondelles de pommes de terre au four au fromage

### Instructions:

**1. Preheat the Oven**
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure it reaches the right temperature for evenly baking the potato rounds and getting the cheese perfectly melted and golden.

**2. Prepare the Potatoes**
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Leave the skins on for extra texture and flavor, or peel them if you prefer. Slice the potatoes into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick. This thickness ensures the potatoes cook evenly and become crispy on the outside while remaining tender on the inside.

**3. Season the Potato Rounds**
In a large mixing bowl, toss the potato slices with olive oil, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (if using). Ensure that the potatoes are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. The olive oil helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven, while the thyme adds a subtle herbal note.

**4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet**
Lay the seasoned potato rounds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Try to avoid overcrowding, as this can lead to uneven cooking. If necessary, use two baking sheets.

**5. Bake the Potatoes**
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the potato rounds for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. After 15 minutes, flip the potatoes to ensure both sides are evenly cooked.

**6. Add the Cheese**
Once the potato rounds are crisp and golden, remove them from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over each round, and return them to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

**7. Garnish and Serve**
Once the cheese is melted and slightly browned, remove the potato rounds from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve hot as a delicious side dish or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

### Tips for Perfect Rondelles de Pommes de Terre au Four:
– **Cheese Variety**: Experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavors. Gruyère offers a nutty, savory taste, while cheddar gives a sharp richness. Mozzarella can also be a great choice for extra meltiness.
– **Crispier Potatoes**: If you prefer extra crispy potatoes, consider parboiling the potato slices for a few minutes before baking. This step helps achieve a crispier texture.
– **Herb Variations**: While thyme is a classic choice, feel free to add other herbs like rosemary, oregano, or garlic powder for additional flavor.

### Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This *Rondelles de Pommes de Terre au Four au Fromage* recipe is incredibly versatile. It can be customized to suit your taste preferences by using different cheeses or adding additional toppings such as crispy bacon, sour cream, or even a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick. It’s also an ideal dish for meal prepping, as the potato rounds can be baked in advance and reheated with ease.

Perfect for any occasion, these cheesy baked potato rounds are a guaranteed hit. So next time you’re in need of a delicious, simple, and comforting dish, give this recipe a try – you won’t regret it!