Cheesy red potatoes are a warm and comforting side dish that everyone will love. With tender red potatoes and creamy cheese, they are simple to make and always a hit at dinner!
I find they pair perfectly with almost any main dish. Plus, who can resist gooey cheese? It’s a great way to make potatoes extra special without any fuss. Grab your fork! 🥔🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: These potatoes have a waxy texture that holds up well when cooked. If red potatoes aren’t available, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes for a similar creamy texture.
Bacon: Bacon adds a savory crunch. For a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta can work well too. You can also skip it entirely for a vegetarian version, adding smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: I love using sharp cheddar for its strong flavor. If you want a milder taste, mild cheddar works, or try a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a different twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for flavor. If you’re short on time, garlic powder can be a substitute, but I’d recommend fresh whenever possible for the best taste.
Chives: Fresh chives add a nice touch. If you don’t have them, green onions or parsley can also brighten up the dish.
How Do I Ensure My Potatoes Are Perfectly Cooked?
Getting the potatoes right is crucial. They should be tender but firm enough to hold together. Follow these steps for success:
- Start by cutting the potatoes into even pieces so they cook at the same rate.
- Boil them in salted water for 10-15 minutes; they should be just tender but not mushy.
- Once drained, let them sit briefly to steam, which helps remove excess moisture before they go into the skillet.
By preparing your potatoes this way, you’ll ensure they’re deliciously creamy inside and ready to soak up all that flavorful garlic butter!
How to Make Cheesy Red Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 2 lbs red potatoes, halved or quartered depending on size
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need about 10-15 minutes to prep the potatoes and bacon, and then another 10 minutes for baking. Perfect for a quick yet tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, wash your red potatoes and cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. Place the cut potatoes in a large pot, cover them with salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook for about 10-15 minutes or until they are just tender without falling apart. Once they are done, drain and set them aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
While your potatoes are boiling, grab a skillet and cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once it’s cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain. Make sure to crumble it into small pieces once it has cooled down a bit. Leave a little bit of the bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet with the leftover bacon fat, add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Combine the Potatoes:
Now it’s time to combine! Add the boiled potatoes to the skillet with the garlic butter. Gently toss the potatoes to coat them well, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake the Potatoes:
Transfer the coated potatoes to an ovenproof dish. Sprinkle the delicious crumbled bacon evenly over the potatoes, and then top everything off with the shredded cheddar cheese. Place the dish in the preheated oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once your Cheesy Red Potatoes are out of the oven, sprinkle the freshly chopped chives on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve them hot and enjoy this delightful side dish with your meal!
Enjoy your Cheesy Red Potatoes!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Yes, you can! While red potatoes work best for a creamy texture, Yukon Gold potatoes are a great alternative if you can’t find red ones. Just ensure they’re similar in size for even cooking.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Healthier?
Absolutely! You can opt for turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether for a vegetarian version. Additionally, using reduced-fat cheese can cut down on calories without sacrificing flavor.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cheesy Red Potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prep most of this dish the night before. Boil the potatoes and cook the bacon, then assemble everything in the baking dish. Cover and refrigerate, then bake it fresh right before serving!
