When I first decided to whip up a batch of Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes, I had no idea I was about to discover my new favorite side dish. The moment those crispy, golden-brown potatoes came out of the oven, the heavenly aroma of melted cheese and smoky bacon filled my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.
These delightful potatoes offer a unique twist on the classic loaded baked potato. They’re perfectly crispy on the outside and satisfyingly soft on the inside, creating a delightful contrast of textures that will please any palate. Quick and easy to prepare, they make for a fantastic side during family dinners or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings.
With just a handful of ingredients, including creamy cheddar and zesty sour cream, you’ll find that this recipe not only elevates your meals but also adds a touch of indulgence without any fuss. So, if you’re tired of the same old sides and craving something flavorful, let’s dive into the world of Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes!
Why love these Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes?
Irresistible Flavor: This recipe features a harmonious blend of creamy cheddar and smoky bacon that dances on your taste buds.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just about 40 minutes, you’ll serve a delicious side dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or parties, these smashed potatoes are bound to impress guests of all ages.
Unique Twist: Enjoy the crispy outside and soft inside that takes the loaded baked potato concept to a whole new level.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with your choice of cheeses or add veggies to suit your taste and dietary needs!
These Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes are not just a side—they’re a celebration of flavor and texture that everyone will love!
Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to whip up these irresistible Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes!
For the Potatoes
- Baby Yellow Potatoes – Their creamy texture holds up beautifully when smashed; you can substitute with red potatoes if needed.
- Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; adjust to your preference during boiling and before baking.
- Pepper – Provides a subtle kick; freshly cracked pepper is best for maximum flavor.
For the Topping
- Olive Oil – Gives a delightful crispiness when baked; feel free to use avocado oil for a subtle flavor twist.
- Cheddar Cheese (shredded) – Melts perfectly and adds richness; medium or sharp cheddar will intensify the flavor.
- Bacon (chopped and cooked) – Brings savory notes; using pre-cooked bacon can save you time.
- Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and tang, balancing the rich cheese; Greek yogurt makes for a healthy swap.
- Fresh Chives (chopped) – Provides a pop of freshness and color; green onions can work in a pinch.
Now, you’re all set to create a mouthwatering batch of Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes that will tantalize your taste buds!
How to Make Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes
-
Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.
-
Boil Potatoes: Place your baby yellow potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook for about 15 minutes, until they are fork-tender. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
-
Cook Bacon: While the potatoes are boiling, chop the bacon into small pieces and cook in a skillet over medium heat for around 5 minutes, or until crispy. Transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess grease.
-
Smash Potatoes: Arrange the boiled potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Take a glass or the bottom of a sturdy cup and gently smash each potato until it’s flattened but still holds its shape.
-
Season Potatoes: Brush each smashed potato with a drizzle of olive oil and generously sprinkle with salt and pepper to enhance their flavor.
-
Bake: Bake the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until they are golden and crispy. For an extra crunch, let them bake for an additional 5 minutes.
-
Add Cheese: Once the baking time is complete, remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Return them to the oven for another 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
-
Top and Serve: Finally, remove from the oven and generously top each potato with the crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped chives. Serve them hot for the best experience!
Optional: Garnish with extra chives or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce for an added kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes
- Potato Selection: Use baby yellow potatoes for creamy texture and shape retention. If unavailable, red potatoes are a fine alternative.
- Don’t Overboil: Boil potatoes until fork-tender but avoid overcooking. Overcooked potatoes can break apart and lose texture while smashing.
- Perfectly Smash: Gently press down on the potatoes; achieving a balance between smashed and intact will enhance texture and flavor.
- Oil Generously: Applying enough olive oil not only ensures crispiness but also helps season the potatoes evenly.
- Seasoning Matters: Be generous with salt and pepper before baking to ensure deep flavor in your cheesy bacon loaded smashed potatoes.
- Bacon Crunch: Ensure bacon is crispy before adding; soggy bacon won’t provide that satisfying crunch that complements your delicious potatoes.
Storage Tips for Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes
- Fridge: Store leftover cheesy bacon loaded smashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.
- Freezer: You can freeze these potatoes for up to 2 months. Layer them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Microwaving can make them soggy, so we recommend the oven method for optimal texture.
- Thawing: If frozen, let the cheesy bacon loaded smashed potatoes thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure even warmth.
What to Serve with Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes?
Elevate your dining experience by pairing these delightful potatoes with equally scrumptious dishes that complement their flavors.
-
Grilled Chicken: Tender and juicy grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that harmonizes perfectly with the richness of the potatoes.
-
Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad freshens the palate, balancing the decadent flavors of cheese and bacon while adding a vibrant touch.
-
Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious and crunchy steamed broccoli offers a contrast in texture and brings a burst of color to your plate.
-
BBQ Ribs: The savory, sweet notes of BBQ ribs pair wonderfully with the potatoes’ creamy and cheesy goodness—a match made in comfort food heaven.
-
Creamy Coleslaw: The cool, tangy crunch of coleslaw cuts through the richness, making each bite of your meal feel refreshing.
-
Savory Cornbread: Slightly sweet and fluffy cornbread complements the salty flavors of the potatoes, creating a satisfying Southern-inspired meal.
-
Garlic Bread: Simple yet flavorful, warm garlic bread provides another delightful texture while soaking up any delicious sauces on the plate.
-
Red Wine: A glass of rich red wine rounds out the meal; the tannins of the wine enhance the flavors of the cheese and bacon beautifully.
These thoughtful pairings will elevate your Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes, turning any dinner into a special occasion!
Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to customize these mashed potatoes with exciting twists that will tickle your taste buds!
-
Different Cheeses: Swap out cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even feta for a new flavor experience.
Experimenting with cheeses can elevate your dish; each offers its own creamy richness and unique taste profile. -
Add Vegetables: Toss in steamed broccoli, sautéed mushrooms, or fresh spinach before baking for added nutrition and color.
Incorporating veggies not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely contrast of textures that complement the potatoes beautifully. -
Spicy Kick: For a fiery touch, include diced jalapeños or spicy pepper jack cheese.
A little heat can transform your dish from comforting to thrilling, making each bite an adventure. -
Meat Variants: Substitute bacon with cooked sausage, turkey bacon, or even chopped ham for a different savory punch.
Each meat brings its own character, infusing your smashed potatoes with rich, hearty flavors that are sure to satisfy. -
Herb Infusion: Mixing in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can add a fragrant twist to your potatoes.
These herbs can elevate the dish, introducing fresh and vibrant notes that make each mouthful delightful. -
Creamy Alternatives: Replace sour cream with Greek yogurt or a vegan sour cream for a healthier or plant-based option.
This swap keeps the creaminess while catering to different dietary needs, allowing everyone to enjoy the dish! -
Zesty Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving can brighten up the flavors beautifully.
This simple addition can take your smashed potatoes from rich to refreshing in just a moment. -
Sweet Potato Twist: Try using sweet potatoes for a naturally sweeter, more vibrant dish.
This alternative not only changes the flavor but brings in a gorgeous color that’s sure to catch the eye!
Each variation opens up a world of possibilities, encouraging you to get creative with your snack or side dish!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes are ideal for meal prep, simplifying your weeknight cooking! You can boil and smash the baby yellow potatoes up to 24 hours in advance, then refrigerate them in an airtight container. To maintain their delicious quality, keep the prepped potatoes unseasoned to prevent browning. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply brush them with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and bake them straight from the fridge at 425°F (220°C) for about 30 minutes until crispy. Add the cheese and bacon toward the end to ensure a gooey, melt-in-your-mouth finish! Enjoy these crowd-pleasers with minimal fuss!
Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, choose baby yellow potatoes. They have a creamy texture that holds up well during the smashing process. If you can’t find them, red potatoes are a suitable substitute as they also maintain their shape when cooked.
What’s the best way to store leftover smashed potatoes?
The more the merrier! You can store leftover cheesy bacon loaded smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid excess moisture.
Can I freeze Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze them, first arrange the smashed potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer until solid (about 1-2 hours). Then, transfer the frozen potatoes to a freezer-safe bag. They can be kept for up to 2 months.
How do I reheat frozen smashed potatoes without losing their crunch?
To reheat, let the cheesy bacon loaded smashed potatoes thaw in the fridge overnight. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the potatoes on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm and crispy again. This method keeps the texture just right!
What if I have dietary restrictions, can I modify this recipe?
Very! If you want to make these potatoes healthier, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, which adds creaminess with less fat. Additionally, if you have a bacon allergy or want a vegetarian option, feel free to skip the bacon or substitute with smoked tempeh for that smoky flavor sensation.
What should I do if my potatoes fall apart while smashing them?
No worries! If your potatoes break apart during smashing, it could be that they were overcooked. To avoid this, ensure you boil just until fork-tender—about 15 minutes should do. If they do crumble, you can still bake them for a crispy, tasty bite; just treat them as smashed pieces rather than intact potatoes!
Irresistible Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place baby yellow potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook for about 15 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
- Chop bacon into small pieces and cook in a skillet over medium heat for around 5 minutes, until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Arrange boiled potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and gently smash each potato until flattened but intact.
- Brush each smashed potato with olive oil and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. For extra crunch, bake for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, returning to the oven for 2 additional minutes to melt.
- Top each potato with crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of chopped chives before serving hot.