Cheesy Bacon Oven Potatoes

There’s something universally comforting about cheesy potatoes, and when you add crispy bacon to the mix, you create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, these Cheesy Bacon Oven Potatoes are bound to be a hit. The combination of tender potatoes, savory bacon, and melted cheese meld beautifully in the oven, creating a deliciously irresistible flavor profile. Let’s dive into the recipe that will elevate your potato game to savory new heights!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This recipe is a must-try because it balances simplicity with incredible flavor. Using just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that not only tastes amazing but also brings people together around the table. Plus, the addition of jalapeño lends a spicy kick that can be adjusted to meet your heat preferences. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and crispy textures that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 6 ounces of bacon, diced
• 3 pounds of gold potatoes, washed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil, plus more for greasing the pan
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and diced
• 1 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded

How To Make Cheesy Bacon Oven Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by washing and cutting the gold potatoes into bite-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking and the perfect texture. Dice the bacon into small pieces and set it aside. If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to adjust or leave out the jalapeño.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a medium skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy and golden brown, about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess grease. Reserve about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet.

Step 3: Sauté the Jalapeño

In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add the diced jalapeño. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes, just until the jalapeño is tender. This step will enhance the flavor and provide a subtle kick to the dish.

Step 4: Combine Potatoes with Bacon and Jalapeño

In a large mixing bowl, add the cut potatoes, cooked bacon, sautéed jalapeño, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the potatoes are well coated with the seasoning and bacon goodness.

Step 5: Bake the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a large baking sheet with olive oil to prevent sticking. Spread the potato mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender and golden brown.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potato mixture. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the cheese is melted and golden brown, remove the dish from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these Cheesy Bacon Oven Potatoes warm as a delicious side dish or a delightful snack!

Expert Tips

• For extra flavor, consider adding garlic powder or onion powder to the potato mixture before baking.
• If you like your potatoes extra crispy, try broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
• For a healthier twist, you can replace half of the potatoes with cauliflower florets.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for different flavor profiles.

Variations and Customizations

• Add vegetables like bell peppers or green onions for added color and nutrition.
• For a creamier texture, incorporate a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top before serving.
• Switch out the bacon for turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative for a lighter version.
• Spice it up by adding diced poblano peppers alongside the jalapeño or using a hot sauce drizzle for serving.

How to Store Leftovers

To store any leftovers, allow the Cheesy Bacon Oven Potatoes to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. When reheating, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, which will help retain their crispy texture.

FAQ

Can I make Cheesy Bacon Oven Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the potato mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply add cheese and follow the baking instructions.

What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?

Gold potatoes work wonderfully due to their creamy texture and buttery flavor. However, you can also use red potatoes or even Yukon gold potatoes for a slightly different result.

Can I freeze Cheesy Bacon Oven Potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just ensure they are in an airtight container. When you are ready to enjoy them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or save some of the bacon grease to sauté vegetables for an added depth of flavor. You can also add more spices for flavor enhancement.

Conclusion

Cheesy Bacon Oven Potatoes are not just a dish; they are an experience of warmth and comfort. With crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and tender potatoes, this recipe checks all the boxes for a delightful savory treat. Perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings, each bite will leave you craving more. Try making this dish for your next meal, and prepare to receive rave reviews from friends and family! Enjoy the cheesy, crispy goodness that is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.