Loaded Bacon & Roasted Baby Potato Bake
Introduction
This dish is a cross between loaded baked potatoes and cheesy potato casserole. It takes the best of both worlds — tender roasted baby potatoes, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and tangy sour cream — then layers them together in a satisfying bake. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day gatherings, it’s the kind of recipe that disappears fast once served!
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Roasted Potatoes:
- 2 lbs (900 g) baby potatoes, halved
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Topping:
- 8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar & mozzarella)
- ½ cup sour cream
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Roast the Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and halve the baby potatoes.
- Toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
- While potatoes roast, cook bacon in a skillet until crispy.
- Drain on paper towels and crumble into pieces.
Step 3: Assemble the Bake
- Transfer roasted potatoes into a baking dish.
- Sprinkle evenly with crumbled bacon.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Return to oven and bake for 10 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
- Drizzle with sour cream.
- Garnish with green onions and parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Methods
- Roasting at high heat → makes the potatoes crispy outside, fluffy inside.
- Layering toppings after roasting → ensures the bacon stays crisp and cheese melts perfectly.
- Sour cream drizzle → adds creaminess and balances the richness.
History
- Loaded potatoes originated as a variation of the American baked potato, traditionally topped with butter, cheese, and sour cream.
- Bacon and cheese were added later in diners and steakhouses, making them popular as “loaded” or “stuffed” potatoes.
- This casserole-style version uses baby potatoes for extra crispiness and convenience.
Benefits
- Comfort food → cheesy, crispy, and indulgent.
- Easy to prepare → minimal prep with simple ingredients.
- Family-friendly → loved by kids and adults alike.
- Customizable → add jalapeños for spice, or broccoli for a veggie boost.
Formation (Serving Ideas)
- Serve as a side dish with grilled steak, chicken, or ribs.
- Enjoy as a main course with a green salad.
- Use as a game-day snack with ranch or barbecue sauce for dipping.
- Make it a breakfast dish by topping with fried eggs.
Conclusion
The Loaded Bacon & Roasted Baby Potato Bake is a dish that delivers on flavor, texture, and satisfaction. With crispy potatoes, smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and cool sour cream, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Lovers of This Recipe
- Potato lovers who crave hearty, golden spuds.
- Cheese enthusiasts who want gooey, melty goodness.
- Bacon fans who can’t resist smoky crispness.
- Families & friends who love sharing warm, satisfying meals.
Final Thought
Every bite of this potato bake is crispy, cheesy, smoky, and creamy — the ultimate loaded potato experience in casserole form. A dish that’s simple to make but unforgettable at the table.