Ultimate Loaded Roasted Potatoes: Bacon, Cheese & Parsley Perfection

Roasted potatoes are a classic comfort food, but they can be so much more than just a simple side dish. This recipe elevates the humble roasted potato to a show-stopping experience, combining crispy, golden-brown potatoes with smoky bacon, melted cheese, and fresh, vibrant parsley. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will have everyone asking for seconds! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, herbs, and even spices to create your own signature loaded roasted potatoes.

**Why You’ll Love This Recipe:**

* **Crispy Perfection:** Achieve that ideal balance of a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior.
* **Flavor Bomb:** The combination of bacon, cheese, and parsley is a match made in heaven.
* **Easy to Make:** Simple ingredients and straightforward instructions make this recipe a breeze.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** Perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your own taste preferences.

**Ingredients You’ll Need:**

* 2 lbs Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
* 6 slices Bacon, cut into small pieces
* 2 cups Shredded Cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
* 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
* 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
* 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
* 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
* 1/2 teaspoon Paprika
* Salt and Black Pepper to taste

**Equipment You’ll Need:**

* Large Bowl
* Baking Sheet
* Large Skillet (optional, for cooking bacon)
* Aluminum Foil (optional, for easy cleanup)

**Step-by-Step Instructions:**

**1. Prepare the Potatoes:**

* Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior we’re after. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before putting the potatoes in.
* Wash and peel the potatoes. While peeling is optional, it does contribute to a crispier finish. If you prefer to leave the skins on, make sure to scrub them thoroughly.
* Cut the potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Consistency in size is key for even cooking. Smaller cubes will cook faster, while larger ones will take longer. Aim for uniformity to ensure that all the potatoes are perfectly cooked at the same time.
* Place the cubed potatoes in a large bowl.

**2. Season the Potatoes:**

* Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil. Olive oil helps the potatoes crisp up in the oven and adds a subtle flavor. You can also use other cooking oils with a high smoke point, such as avocado oil or vegetable oil.
* Sprinkle the potatoes with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasonings! These spices will infuse the potatoes with flavor and enhance their overall taste. Adjust the amount of each spice to your liking. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika.
* Toss the potatoes thoroughly to ensure they are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. Use your hands or a large spoon to toss the potatoes until they are well coated. This step is essential for ensuring that every potato piece is flavorful and crispy.

**3. Roast the Potatoes:**

* Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this will steam the potatoes instead of roasting them. If necessary, use two baking sheets to ensure that the potatoes are spread out evenly.
* Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through. Flipping the potatoes halfway through the cooking process helps them to cook evenly and prevents them from sticking to the baking sheet. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the potato cubes and the efficiency of your oven. Check for doneness by piercing a potato with a fork. If it’s easily pierced, it’s ready.

**4. Cook the Bacon:**

* While the potatoes are roasting, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Alternatively, you can bake the bacon in the oven alongside the potatoes. To bake the bacon, line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the bacon slices in a single layer. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until crispy.
* Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels. This will remove excess grease and help the bacon to stay crispy.
* Crumble the bacon into small pieces. You can use your hands or a knife to crumble the bacon. Set aside.

**5. Assemble the Loaded Potatoes:**

* Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven.
* Sprinkle the cooked bacon and shredded cheese evenly over the roasted potatoes. Make sure to distribute the bacon and cheese evenly so that every potato piece gets a delicious topping.
* Return the baking sheet to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the potatoes to prevent the cheese from burning.

**6. Garnish and Serve:**

* Remove the loaded roasted potatoes from the oven.
* Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Parsley adds a pop of freshness and color to the dish.
* Serve immediately and enjoy! These loaded roasted potatoes are best served hot and fresh. They make a great side dish or a satisfying main course.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Potato Variety:** Yukon Gold potatoes are known for their creamy texture and slightly sweet flavor, making them a great choice for roasting. Russet potatoes, on the other hand, are starchier and will result in a crispier exterior. Feel free to experiment with other potato varieties, such as red potatoes or fingerling potatoes.
* **Cheese Options:** Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for loaded potatoes, but you can also use other types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses. For a sharper flavor, try using sharp cheddar cheese. For a milder flavor, use Colby Jack cheese.
* **Herb Variations:** While parsley is the traditional herb for garnishing loaded potatoes, you can also use other herbs, such as chives, dill, or rosemary. Each herb will add a unique flavor to the dish. Try experimenting with different herb combinations to find your favorite.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the potatoes for a spicy kick. You can also add other spices, such as cumin, chili powder, or oregano, to create a more complex flavor profile.
* **Add Vegetables:** For a healthier twist, add some roasted vegetables to the potatoes. Broccoli, bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms are all great additions. Roast the vegetables alongside the potatoes for a complete and balanced meal.
* **Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt:** Serve the loaded roasted potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tanginess.
* **Garlic Lovers:** Add minced garlic to the potatoes along with the other seasonings for an extra garlicky flavor. Roast the minced garlic along with the potatoes to mellow out its flavor.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Skip the bacon and add some other toppings, such as roasted mushrooms, black beans, or corn, to make a vegetarian version of this dish.
* **Bacon Alternatives:** If you don’t have bacon on hand, you can use other types of smoked meat, such as ham or pancetta. You can also use vegetarian bacon alternatives, such as tempeh bacon or mushroom bacon.
* **Easy Cleanup:** Line the baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. This will prevent the potatoes from sticking to the baking sheet and make it easier to wash afterwards.
* **Parboiling:** For extra fluffy insides, consider parboiling the potatoes for 5-7 minutes before roasting. This helps to soften the potatoes and creates a more desirable texture. Drain the potatoes thoroughly after parboiling and pat them dry before seasoning and roasting.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Pan:** When roasting the potatoes, make sure to spread them out in a single layer on the baking sheet. Overcrowding the pan will cause the potatoes to steam instead of roast, resulting in soggy potatoes.
* **High Heat is Key:** Roasting the potatoes at a high temperature (400°F or 200°C) is essential for achieving that crispy exterior. The high heat helps to evaporate the moisture from the potatoes and create a golden-brown crust.
* **Salt the Potatoes:** Salting the potatoes before roasting helps to draw out moisture and creates a crispier exterior. Don’t be afraid to season the potatoes generously with salt.

**Serving Suggestions:**

These loaded roasted potatoes are a versatile dish that can be served as a side dish or a main course. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Side Dish:** Serve alongside grilled chicken, steak, fish, or pork.
* **Main Course:** Serve as a loaded potato bowl with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or chili.
* **Breakfast:** Top with a fried egg for a hearty and satisfying breakfast.
* **Party Appetizer:** Cut the potatoes into smaller cubes and serve as a bite-sized appetizer at your next party.
* **Holiday Side Dish:** Perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter.

**Storage Instructions:**

* Store leftover loaded roasted potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
* To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may not be as crispy.

Enjoy these ultimate loaded roasted potatoes with bacon, cheese, and parsley! This recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. Remember to experiment with different variations to create your own signature dish. Happy cooking!