Looking for a side dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor? These Bacon Cheddar Ranch Smashed Potatoes are everything you’ve been craving! They combine tender baby potatoes with melty cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch dressing for the ultimate comfort food experience. I found this delicious recipe on I Wuv Cooking, and it’s a winner!
Whether you’re hosting a gathering, making a weeknight meal, or just indulging in some comfort food, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love These Smashed Potatoes
These smashed potatoes are not just a side dish—they’re the star of the table! The crispy edges, cheesy topping, and savory bacon combine to create a dish that’s incredibly satisfying. The addition of ranch dressing adds a creamy, tangy twist that perfectly complements the crunchy and cheesy goodness. Best of all, they’re simple to make with just a handful of ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes.
- Drain and arrange the cooked potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
2. Smash and Season
- Using a fork or the bottom of a glass, gently smash each potato to flatten them slightly.
- Drizzle the smashed potatoes with melted butter and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Bake to Crispy Perfection
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
4. Add the Toppings
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and drizzle them with ranch dressing.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
5. Melt the Cheese
- Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
- Serve these crispy smashed potatoes immediately and watch them disappear!
Tips for the Perfect Smashed Potatoes
- Get Extra Crispy: For even crispier potatoes, flip them halfway through the initial bake time.
- Cheese Variety: Try using a cheese blend or adding a bit of parmesan for extra flavor.
- Make It Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions instead.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
The combination of crispy potatoes, creamy ranch, and gooey cheese makes this dish a crowd favorite. It pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even on its own as a hearty snack. The balance of textures and flavors ensures everyone will be coming back for seconds.
Did you enjoy this recipe?
If you give these Bacon Cheddar Ranch Smashed Potatoes a try, let me know how they turned out! Be sure to check out more amazing recipes at I Wuv Cooking for inspiration.
Crispy Bacon Cheddar Ranch Smashed Potatoes: A Flavor-Packed Side Dish You’ll Love
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Boil the baby potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly. Then, place them on a baking sheet.
- Use a fork or the bottom of a glass to gently smash each potato until flattened.
- Drizzle melted butter over the smashed potatoes and season with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until they are crispy and golden.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon on top.
- Return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes, until the cheese is melted.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the top and garnish with chopped chives, if desired.
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious crispy bacon cheddar ranch smashed potatoes!
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