Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a mouthwatering sensation that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! These Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes are not just a recipe; they're a culinary adventure that combines crispy roasted baby potatoes, tangy ranch dressing, melted cheese, and irresistible bacon into one incredible dish. Whether you're hosting a family dinner, game day party, or just craving a seriously delicious side, this recipe is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 40 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds baby potatoes
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut larger potatoes in half to ensure uniform cooking, leaving smaller potatoes whole.
- Place the potatoes in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle ranch dressing over the potatoes, ensuring each potato is evenly coated. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Spread the ranch-coated potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not overcrowded to allow proper roasting and crispy edges.
- Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispiness.
- While potatoes are roasting, cook bacon in a skillet until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces.
- Once potatoes are golden and tender, remove from oven and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Return to oven for an additional 3-5 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and immediately top with crumbled bacon and chopped green onions.
- Let the potatoes rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow cheese to set and flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish or appetizer, garnished with additional green onions if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby potatoes work best for this recipe, as they create the perfect crispy exterior and creamy interior.
- Don't Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Ensure potatoes are spread in a single layer with some space between them to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Pat Potatoes Dry: Before seasoning, make sure to thoroughly dry the potatoes to help them get that perfect golden-brown roast.
- Use Fresh Bacon: Freshly cooked, crispy bacon provides the best flavor and texture. Avoid pre-packaged bacon bits.
- Customize Your Cheese: While the recipe calls for shredded cheese, feel free to experiment with different varieties like cheddar, monterey jack, or a cheese blend.
- Watch Closely When Melting Cheese: The final 3-5 minutes of cheese melting can go from perfect to burnt quickly, so keep a close eye on your potatoes.
- Let Them Rest: Allowing the potatoes to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps the cheese set and flavors meld together.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 40mg
