Print

Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes

Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes

Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes combine crispy, smoky bacon with tender, golden roasted garlic-infused potatoes, topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese and fresh herbs for a comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for any meal or occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes & Garlic

  • 2 pounds Yukon Gold or red potatoes, washed and cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 8 garlic cloves, peeled and left whole

Seasonings & Oil

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Bacon & Cheese

  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or your preferred melty cheese)

Garnishes

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Wash and cut the potatoes into evenly sized bite-sized chunks for even roasting. Peel the garlic cloves but keep them whole to roast alongside the potatoes, bringing out a mellow and caramelized flavor.
  2. Roast the Potatoes and Garlic: Toss the potatoes and whole garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes until golden brown and tender, turning once halfway through.
  3. Cook the Bacon: While the potatoes roast, cook the bacon until crispy by frying or baking. Drain on paper towels and crumble into bite-sized pieces once cooled.
  4. Combine and Add Cheese: Transfer the roasted potatoes and garlic to a mixing bowl. Gently mash the roasted garlic cloves into the potatoes to release their flavor. Add the crumbled bacon and shredded cheese, stirring lightly to combine all ingredients.
  5. Finish and Garnish: Return the mixture to the baking sheet and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes to melt the cheese and meld flavors. Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives before serving.

Notes

  • Cut potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting and consistent texture.
  • Let potatoes come to room temperature before roasting for better crisping.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; spread ingredients out to avoid steaming and ensure browning.
  • Keeping garlic cloves whole softens their sharpness and adds natural sweetness.
  • Add cheese near the end of baking to prevent burning and achieve perfect melting.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded potatoes, bacon potatoes, roasted garlic potatoes, comfort food, side dish, cheesy potatoes