Crispy, cheesy, and loaded with smoky flavor, Smashed Baby Potatoes With Cheese and Bacon take your average spuds to a whole new level.
Each potato is gently smashed and roasted until golden and crunchy on the edges, then topped with gooey melted cheese and crispy crumbled bacon.
It’s a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that works just as well as a side for dinner as it does as a sharable appetizer on game day.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Smashed Baby Potatoes With Cheese and Bacon
- Crispy on the Outside, Fluffy Inside: The smashing technique creates a perfect contrast in texture.
- Loaded With Flavor: Cheese and bacon turn these potatoes into a savory, indulgent bite.
- Easy to Make: Minimal prep and simple ingredients deliver big results.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the crispy-cheesy goodness.
- Great for Entertaining: Serve as a party appetizer or hearty side dish.
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Ingredients For Smashed Baby Potatoes With Cheese and Bacon
These simple ingredients come together to create a flavorful, crispy, and indulgent dish that everyone will love.
- 1½ pounds baby potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Chopped green onions or chives (optional, for garnish)
Step By Step Instruction To Make Smashed Baby Potatoes With Cheese and Bacon
Follow these steps to create perfectly crispy smashed potatoes topped with melted cheese and crispy bacon.
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Place the baby potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook for 10–12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and set aside to cool slightly.
PRO TIP: Be sure not to overcook the potatoes, as they need to hold their shape when smashed.
Step 2: Smash the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, drizzle the olive oil. Place the boiled potatoes on the sheet and use the back of a spoon or a potato masher to gently smash each one, pressing down until they flatten but still stay intact.
PRO TIP: Give each potato a little space on the sheet to ensure they crisp up evenly.
Step 3: Roast the Potatoes
Sprinkle the smashed potatoes with salt and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Bacon
Remove the potatoes from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the hot potatoes, then return to the oven for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
PRO TIP: You can add more cheese if you prefer a cheesier version.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top the cheesy potatoes with crumbled bacon, a dollop of sour cream (if using), and fresh chopped green onions or chives for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately for the best crunch and flavor.
FAQs or Tips
These tips and answers will help you make the best smashed baby potatoes every time.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! While cheddar is a classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or Gruyère for different flavors.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can parboil and smash the potatoes a day ahead. Just store them in the fridge and roast them with cheese and bacon when you’re ready to serve.
How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the baking sheet?
Make sure to drizzle enough olive oil on the baking sheet and coat the potatoes with a little oil before smashing. Using parchment paper can also help prevent sticking.
Can I make these without bacon?
Yes, if you prefer a vegetarian option, you can skip the bacon or use plant-based bacon or crispy roasted chickpeas as a substitute for crunch.
How long do leftovers keep?
Leftovers will last in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain crispiness, or use a microwave if you’re in a pinch.
Variations or Serving Suggestions
Customize these smashed potatoes or serve them in different ways for even more flavor.
- Add Garlic: Before roasting, sprinkle with minced garlic for extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or jalapeños for some heat.
- Herb Infusion: Toss the smashed potatoes with fresh rosemary, thyme, or parsley before roasting.
- Toppings: Try adding a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of ranch dressing, or a sprinkle of crispy onions for more texture and flavor.
Nutrition + Summary
Here’s an estimate of the nutrition per serving, based on six servings.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 270 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Carbohydrates | 24g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 7g |
Smashed Baby Potatoes With Cheese and Bacon is a dish that delivers on flavor and texture with minimal effort. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with cheesy, smoky goodness, it’s the perfect side dish or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Disclaimer: Nutritional information on this blog is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and portions. We are not nutritionists and recommend consulting a professional for specific dietary advice.
