Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes

by

Looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a touch of indulgence? Look no further than these Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes. This recipe elevates humble russet potatoes into a mouthwatering masterpiece, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main course, these potatoes are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients:

  • ½ pound of bacon
  • 3 extra-large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2″-3/4″ pieces (approximately 6 cups)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheeses
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced

Directions:

  1. Cook the Bacon: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lay the bacon strips on a large rimmed baking sheet pan and place it in the oven on the middle rack. Cook for about 16 minutes or until the bacon reaches your desired level of crispiness. Once done, transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, but leave about 2-3 tablespoons of bacon grease on the sheet pan.
  2. Prepare the Potatoes: While the bacon is cooking, peel and chop the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Toss the chopped potatoes in the reserved bacon grease on the sheet pan, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the potatoes with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on the sheet pan and bake for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, stir the potatoes well and return them to the oven for another 20 minutes. Stir again to ensure even cooking and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden and crispy.
  3. Assemble and Bake: While the potatoes are baking, chop the cooked bacon into small pieces. Once the potatoes are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven and sprinkle generously with shredded cheese and chopped bacon. Return the tray to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and bubbly.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Just before serving, top the potatoes with thinly sliced green onions for a pop of freshness and color. These crispy, cheesy, and bacon-loaded potatoes are ready to be enjoyed as a delightful side dish or a satisfying main course.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving:

  1. As a Side Dish: These Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes make a fantastic side dish for any meal. Serve them alongside grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad for a hearty and satisfying meal.
  2. As a Main Course: For a more substantial meal, serve these potatoes as a main course. Pair them with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad for a complete and comforting dinner.
  3. For Entertaining: These potatoes are perfect for entertaining guests. Serve them as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or as part of a buffet-style spread at your next gathering. They’re sure to be a hit!
  4. Garnish Options: Customize your Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes with additional toppings such as sour cream, chopped fresh herbs, or a drizzle of hot sauce for extra flavor and flair.

Storage:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
  2. Freezing: While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for future use. Place cooled potatoes in a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag and freeze for up to 1-2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.
  3. Reheating: To maintain their crispy texture, it’s best to reheat the potatoes in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and place the potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave for a quick and convenient option.

Variations

  1. Loaded Potato Skins: Transform these Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes into loaded potato skins by scooping out the cooked potato flesh, leaving a thin layer inside the skins. Fill the skins with the cheese and bacon mixture, then bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve with sour cream and chives for an irresistible appetizer or snack.
  2. Spicy Jalapeño Popper Potatoes: Add a kick of heat to your potatoes by mixing chopped pickled jalapeños into the cheese and bacon mixture before topping the potatoes. Garnish with sliced jalapeños and a drizzle of hot sauce for a spicy twist on this classic dish.
  3. Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, omit the bacon and instead add diced bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms to the potato mixture before baking. Top with your favorite vegetarian cheese and bake until bubbly and golden. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs for added flavor.
  4. Tex-Mex Twist: Give these potatoes a Tex-Mex flair by seasoning them with taco seasoning before baking. Top with shredded Mexican cheese blend, diced tomatoes, black beans, and sliced jalapeños for a flavorful and satisfying dish. Serve with salsa and guacamole on the side for dipping.
  5. Breakfast Potatoes: Turn these potatoes into a hearty breakfast dish by serving them with fried or poached eggs on top. Add cooked breakfast sausage or ham to the cheese and bacon mixture for added protein. Serve with a side of toast or fresh fruit for a complete morning meal.
  6. Herb-infused Potatoes: Enhance the flavor of these potatoes by adding chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or parsley to the potato mixture before baking. The fragrant herbs will add a burst of freshness and elevate the dish to new heights.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe? Yes, while russet potatoes work well for their starchy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different flavor and texture profile.
  2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian-friendly? To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon alternatives. You can also add additional vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor.
  3. Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are certified gluten-free, especially if you have gluten sensitivities or allergies.
  4. Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time? While these potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare them in advance by partially cooking the potatoes and bacon. Assemble the dish up to the point of adding cheese and bacon, then refrigerate until ready to bake.
  5. What can I serve with these Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes? These potatoes pair well with a variety of dishes such as grilled chicken, steak, or fish. They also make a delicious accompaniment to salads or roasted vegetables.
  6. Can I freeze leftover Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes? Yes, you can freeze leftover potatoes for future use. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store in the freezer for up to 1-2 months. Reheat in the oven until heated through.
  7. How do I reheat leftover potatoes? To maintain their crispy texture, it’s best to reheat the potatoes in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the potatoes on a baking sheet for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
  8. Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? Absolutely! While cheddar and Mexican blend cheeses are recommended, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for unique flavor variations.

Indulge in the irresistible combination of crispy potatoes, gooey cheese, and savory bacon with this delicious recipe. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, these Crispy Cheese and Bacon Potatoes are sure to impress. Enjoy the comforting flavors and satisfying crunch of this ultimate comfort food dish!