Crisp Oven Roasted Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese

Crisp Oven Roasted Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese is a mouthwatering side dish perfect for any occasion. Golden Yukon Gold potatoes are boiled to tenderness, then roasted to crispy perfection in the oven with savory bacon, melted Parmesan cheese, and a hint of garlic. This easy recipe delivers a satisfying combination of flavors with crispy potatoes, gooey cheese, and smoky bacon, making it an ideal addition to your dinner table. Perfect for holidays, BBQs, or casual family meals, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. For extra flavor, top with fresh parsley and serve immediately for the best crispy texture.

Ingredients:

• 3 lb medium Yukon Gold potatoes
• 1 Tbsp salt + 1/2 tsp salt
• 6 oz bacon (about 6 strips)
• 2 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F, placing the rack in the lowest position.
2. Cut the washed Yukon Gold potatoes into quarters. Place them in a pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Add 1 Tbsp of salt and boil the potatoes for 12-15 minutes until tender (but not overcooked). Drain and set aside.
3. While the potatoes are boiling, cut the bacon strips in half lengthwise, then crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces. Cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s cooked through but not crispy. Drain the cooked bacon on paper towels and reserve the bacon fat for later use.
4. In a baking dish, coat the bottom with the reserved bacon fat. Arrange the cooked potatoes, cut side down, and sprinkle with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper. Bake the potatoes at 425°F for 35-40 minutes or until the bottoms are golden brown and crispy.
5. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F. Flip the potatoes over and sprinkle them with the shredded Parmesan cheese, bacon, chopped garlic, and drizzle with the remaining bacon fat. Bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
6. Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crisp Oven Roasted Potatoes with Bacon and Cheese recipe combines the irresistible flavors of golden, crispy potatoes with savory bacon and melted Parmesan cheese. The garlic adds a flavorful kick, while the parsley provides a fresh contrast. It’s an easy, satisfying dish perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Boil the potatoes just until they’re tender. Overcooking them may cause them to become too soft to get the crispness you want when baking.
• Reserve Bacon Fat: The bacon fat adds extra flavor to the roasted potatoes, making them even more delicious and crispy.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly chopped garlic provides a stronger, more aromatic flavor than pre-minced garlic.
• Flip the Potatoes Carefully: When flipping the potatoes, be gentle to avoid breaking them apart.

Variations and Substitutions

• Other Cheese Options: Swap out Parmesan for cheddar, mozzarella, or a combination of your favorite cheeses for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives can be used in place of parsley for a more herby flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and substitute with a plant-based bacon alternative or skip it altogether for a lighter version of this dish.

FAQs

• Can I use other types of potatoes? While Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for roasting due to their creamy texture, you can also use russet potatoes for a fluffier interior, or red potatoes for a firmer texture.
• Can I make this ahead of time? You can prep the potatoes in advance by boiling them, storing them in the fridge, and then finishing the roasting and cheese-baking steps when you’re ready to serve.
• How do I make the potatoes extra crispy? To get an extra crispy bottom, make sure to place the cut side of the potatoes down in the pan, and use the reserved bacon fat for an added crispness.

Serving

Serve these crispy, cheesy potatoes as a side dish with grilled meats, steaks, or roasted chicken. They also pair beautifully with a fresh salad or as a hearty addition to breakfast or brunch.

Suggestions

• Breakfast Hash: Pair with scrambled eggs for a filling breakfast hash.
• Toppings: Top with sour cream, green onions, or even a poached egg for an indulgent twist.
• BBQ Side: These roasted potatoes are perfect alongside barbecue ribs or grilled chicken.