Cheesy Bacon Potatoes

Introduction

Cheesy bacon potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—a delicious combination of tender potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese. This dish is a crowd-pleaser perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a BBQ side dish, or a hearty game-day snack. The layers of flavor make it irresistible, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (700g) baby potatoes, halved
• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend of choice)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp chives, chopped (for garnish)
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for added richness)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • In a pot, boil the potatoes in salted water for about 10-12 minutes, or until they’re tender but not falling apart. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
   • In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it’s crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Reserve some of the bacon grease for added flavor.
3. Assemble the Dish:
   • In a baking dish, add the cooked potatoes. Drizzle a bit of the reserved bacon grease or olive oil over the potatoes for extra flavor.
   • Sprinkle the minced garlic over the potatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
   • Top the potatoes with the crispy bacon and then evenly sprinkle the shredded cheese over everything.
4. Bake:
   • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   • Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped chives over the top for a fresh pop of color and flavor.
   • Serve with sour cream on the side for dipping or drizzling over the potatoes, if desired.

Conclusion

Cheesy bacon potatoes are the perfect combination of flavors and textures—crispy, creamy, and savory all at once. This dish is sure to be a hit with family and friends, and the recipe is flexible enough to be adjusted with your favorite cheeses or garnishes. Enjoy this mouthwatering dish as a side or a standalone treat!