These Cheesy Bacon Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, crispy, and savory flavors in every bite. Tender potatoes are baked to golden perfection, then smothered in melted cheese and topped with smoky bacon for a dish that’s irresistibly rich and satisfying. Ready in just 50 minutes, it’s a fuss-free recipe that delivers big on taste and texture.
With a perfect balance of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and soft, fluffy potatoes, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The golden, bubbly cheese crust and the smoky aroma will have everyone gathering around the table. Plus, it’s packed with fiber and protein, making it a hearty side or even a main dish. Comfort food has never been this easy—or this delicious!
Ingredients for Cheesy Bacon Potatoes
- 6 red potatoes (washed and chopped into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil (for coating the potatoes)
- ½ onion, chopped (yellow or white onion works best)
- ⅔ cup plain Greek yogurt (substitute with sour cream if preferred)
- ½ (1 ounce) packet ranch dressing mix (or use homemade ranch seasoning)
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt
- 8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled (turkey bacon is a great alternative)
- ⅔ cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp cheddar adds extra flavor)
- 4 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9×9 inch baking pan with non-stick cooking spray.
- Toss the chopped red potatoes in olive oil in a large bowl. Let them soak in the oil for about 10 minutes to ensure even coating.
- Transfer the potatoes to the prepared pan. Add the chopped onion and stir in the plain Greek yogurt until everything is well combined.
- Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix, pepper, and garlic salt over the potatoes. Stir thoroughly to coat the potatoes evenly with the seasonings.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake for 15 minutes. This helps the potatoes soften and absorb the flavors.
- Remove the pan from the oven and carefully take off the foil. Add the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Return the pan to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are tender with golden edges.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your cheesy, bacon-loaded potatoes warm!
Creative Toppings and Sauces to Elevate Your Dish
For a zesty twist, drizzle a little sriracha mayo or garlic aioli over your Cheesy Bacon Potatoes before serving. If you’re a fan of freshness, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped chives can add a nice contrast. For those who love a bit of heat, a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes can take this dish to the next level.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Cheesy Bacon Potatoes
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or barbecue ribs. If you’re hosting a brunch, it’s a great side to complement scrambled eggs or quiche.
Quick Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, pop them in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating for that gooey goodness all over again!
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Cooks
Save time by using pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits instead of cooking bacon from scratch. You can also chop your potatoes and onion the night before and store them in the fridge. If you’re in a rush, skip the soaking step—just toss the potatoes directly in olive oil and proceed with the recipe.
Recipe Variations to Try Next Time
Swap out the cheddar cheese for pepper jack or Gruyère for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and add smoked paprika for a similar smoky taste. If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added veggies and color.
Cheesy Bacon Potatoes Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 red potatoes, washed and chopped into bite size pieces
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2/3 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 (1 ounce) packet ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic salt
- 8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
- Spray a 9 x 9 inch pan with non stick cooking spray.
- Toss the chopped red potatoes in olive oil. Let them soak in the olive oil for about 10 minutes.
- Place them in the pan, mix in the onion pieces, and stir in the plain Greek yogurt.
- Sprinkle the potatoes with ranch dressing mix, pepper, and garlic salt, and stir them around, so they are all coated in the seasonings.
- Cover the pan with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and add your cooked bacon pieces and cheese.
- Place it back in the oven, uncovered for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted, and the potatoes are soft and getting golden.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh green onions.