How to Make Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful side dish that combines crispy, smoky bacon with golden potatoes and the subtle depth of roasted garlic, you’ve got to try this Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes recipe. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, blending simple ingredients into an irresistible dish that pairs beautifully with almost anything. Every bite bursts with texture and richness, making it a go-to for weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Flavor Balance: The savory bacon and mellow roasted garlic create a mouthwatering harmony with the tender, roasted potatoes.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, it’s a recipe anyone can master quickly.
• Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with poultry, beef, or even a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Texture Delight: Crispy bacon bits and caramelized potatoes add satisfying crunch and softness in every bite.
• Family Favorite: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, perfect for gatherings or simply treating yourself.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes recipe calls for simple, well-chosen ingredients that each play a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. With just the right balance of fat, seasoning, and freshness, every component shines through beautifully.

• Baby Potatoes: Choose firm, waxy varieties for a golden crispy exterior and a creamy interior.
• Bacon: Provides smoky, salty flavor and adds irresistible crunch.
• Garlic Cloves: Roasted until soft and sweet, garlic gives a rich depth unmatched by raw garlic.
• Olive Oil: Helps achieve crispy edges and enriches the flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Rosemary or thyme complement the earthy potatoes and smoky bacon perfectly.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• Chives or Green Onions: A fresh, mild onion flavor adds brightness and color as a garnish.
• Cheddar Cheese (optional): Melts beautifully on top for a creamy, cheesy finish.

Variations for Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative based on your pantry or dietary needs. Whether you want a vegetarian version or a cheesy twist, these variations make it easy to personalize your dish.

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for a subtle heat boost.
• Cheese Lovers: Mix in mozzarella, parmesan, or pepper jack cheese for different melty textures.
• Herb Alternatives: Swap rosemary with oregano or parsley for a different herbal aroma.
• Low Carb Option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower florets for a lighter, low-carb dish.

How to Make Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic

Start by roasting the garlic to bring out its sweetness. Slice the top off a whole bulb, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 30-40 minutes until soft and caramelized.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the garlic roasts, dice your bacon into small pieces and cook it in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain excess fat on paper towels and set aside, reserving some bacon fat for the potatoes.

Step 3: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and halve the baby potatoes. Toss them with olive oil, salt, pepper, fresh herbs, and a spoonful of the reserved bacon fat for maximum flavor and crisping.

Step 4: Roast the Potatoes

Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure even browning and crisp edges.

Step 5: Combine and Season

Once roasted, gently toss the potatoes with the roasted garlic cloves (squeeze out soft garlic paste), crispy bacon bits, and freshly chopped chives or green onions. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top during the last 5 minutes of roasting to melt perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes

• Use Waxy Potatoes: They hold their shape better during roasting and create a creamy interior.
• Save Bacon Fat: Using bacon fat to roast potatoes adds unmatched umami.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread potatoes in a single layer to ensure crispiness.
• Roast Garlic in Foil: This traps moisture and softens the garlic without burning.
• Add Fresh Herbs Last: To preserve vibrant flavor and color, mix herbs in after roasting.
• Optional Cheese: Adding cheese at the end gives a creamy texture without overcooking.

How to Serve Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes

Garnishes

Garnishing with freshly chopped chives, green onions, or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika will brighten the dish visually and add fresh bursts of flavor with every bite.

Side Dishes

Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes pair perfectly with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or even a crisp green salad for a balanced meal full of contrasting textures and richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish in a rustic cast-iron skillet straight from the oven for a cozy presentation, or plate it alongside a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or sour cream mixed with herbs for added indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days without losing flavor or texture.

Freezing

While best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the roasted potatoes without cheese or fresh herbs. Place in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a hot oven or air fryer to revive the crispy edges rather than microwaving, which can make them soggy. A quick 10-minute bake at 400°F (200°C) is ideal for crispiness restoration.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes for Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes?

Yes, you can substitute with Yukon Gold or red potatoes, but waxy baby potatoes provide the best texture contrast between crispy skin and creamy inside.

How do I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the bacon and add smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke for that smoky flavor, ensuring you still get a depth of taste.

Is it necessary to roast the garlic?

Roasting transforms garlic’s harshness into a sweet, mellow flavor that complements this dish perfectly, so it’s highly recommended for the best taste.

Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the garlic and cook the bacon in advance. Store them separately in the fridge and assemble just before serving for maximum freshness.

What’s the best way to keep potatoes crispy when reheating?

Reheat in an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave, which will retain the crispiness on the outside without drying out the inside.

Final Thoughts

Loaded Bacon & Roasted Garlic Potatoes are a true crowd-pleaser with their amazing blend of flavors and textures. This recipe will quickly become a favorite for your weeknight dinners or special occasions, offering comfort and indulgence in every bite. Give it a try and watch it disappear from the plate!

Print