Bring comfort food to your table with these Cheesy Bacon Skillet Potatoes. This dish combines crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and creamy cheddar cheese, all cooked to perfection in one skillet for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. It’s a hearty and satisfying side that can also stand as a main dish for a casual meal. This recipe highlights the smoky depth of smoked paprika, the richness of bacon, and the heartiness of potatoes, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less washing up and more enjoying your meal.
- Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of bacon, cheese, and potatoes offers a comforting and filling experience.
- Versatile: Perfect as a side dish, or add a fried egg on top for a delicious breakfast option.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds small potatoes, halved (or quartered if large)
- 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cream or milk
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Equipment:
- Large skillet (preferably cast iron)
- Slotted spoon
- Cheese grater
- Knife and cutting board
Instructions:
Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, using the bacon fat, add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.
Cook the Potatoes:
- Add the halved potatoes to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the bacon fat and seasonings. Cook over medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the potatoes are golden and fork-tender.
Add Cheese and Bacon:
- Reduce the heat to low. Drizzle cream or milk over the potatoes and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Scatter the crispy bacon pieces over the cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid or aluminum foil and let sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving directly from the skillet for a rustic presentation.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or back in a skillet over medium heat.
- Freezer: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the potatoes and cheese may change texture when frozen and thawed.
Tips:
- Potato Selection: Choose potatoes that hold their shape well when cooked, like baby potatoes or fingerlings.
- Additional Flavors: Consider adding a splash of hot sauce or mustard to the cream for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve as a side with grilled meats or add a fried egg on top for a complete meal.
