If you’re looking for a dish that brings together irresistible crispy textures, gooey melted cheese, and a burst of savory bacon flavor, look no further than this Loaded Smashed Potatoes with Bacon, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that elevates simple new potatoes to a mouthwatering experience, perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or any time you crave something both comforting and exciting. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and fresh thanks to the luscious cheddar, tangy sour cream, and bright chives.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Loaded Smashed Potatoes with Bacon, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe truly sing, you only need a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients that work beautifully together. Each one is vital for the dish’s incredible flavor, texture, and visual appeal.
- 1½ pounds new potatoes (golf ball size, baby reds or Yukon Golds): These tender potatoes are perfect for smashing and crisping up in the oven.
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning both the boiling water and the potatoes themselves to enhance natural flavors.
- 1 pound thin-sliced bacon (cooked crisp & crumbled): Adds smoky, crunchy goodness that’s absolutely divine when paired with potatoes.
- 1-2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite): Melts irresistibly over the potatoes for a rich, cheesy kick.
- ½ cup sour cream: Brings a cool, tangy creaminess that balances the bacon and cheese perfectly.
- 2-4 tablespoons chopped chives: Fresh and mild, chives add a lovely pop of color and subtle onion flavor.
How to Make Loaded Smashed Potatoes with Bacon, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes Until Tender
Start by rinsing your new potatoes and removing any blemishes. Place them in a large pot with cold water, enough to cover by about two inches. Add kosher salt to season the water, then bring everything to a boil. Lower the heat to let the potatoes simmer until they are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. This step softens them just enough to smash without falling apart later.
Step 2: Cook and Crumble the Bacon
While the potatoes cook, get your bacon crisped up in a skillet. Don’t toss the rendered bacon fat—the savory liquid gold left behind will become the key to creating those crispy, golden edges on your smashed potatoes.
Step 3: Drain and Dry Your Potatoes
Once tender, drain the potatoes and let them rest on paper towels to dry completely. Removing excess moisture is crucial for that perfect crisp in the oven.
Step 4: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare a Baking Sheet
Set your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, moving the rack to the lower-middle position. Cover a large, rimmed baking sheet with foil and spray lightly with nonstick spray. Place it in the oven to heat up with the bacon fat, ensuring the potatoes crisp up beautifully when placed on the hot pan.
Step 5: Smash the Potatoes Gently
Once cooled enough to handle, flatten each potato to about a quarter-inch thick using the bottom of a flat cup or glass. The goal is to expose the potato’s interior without breaking it entirely. This flattened shape allows for maximum crispy surface area.
Step 6: Season and Bake for Crispy Perfection
Carefully take the hot baking sheet out of the oven, add the bacon fat, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Arrange your smashed potatoes in a single layer, spaced at least an inch apart, then sprinkle the tops with a bit more salt and pepper. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes until the undersides turn crispy and golden, then flip each one to crisp the other side for an additional 10 to 20 minutes.
Step 7: Top and Serve Immediately
Transfer your beautifully crispy potatoes to a serving plate. Now comes the best part: sprinkle them generously with crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, dollops of sour cream, and a scattering of fresh chives. Serve this warm, cheesy masterpiece right away to enjoy every melty, crunchy bite.
How to Serve Loaded Smashed Potatoes with Bacon, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe
Garnishes
While the basic toppings are spot on, feel free to get creative with garnishes. A sprinkle of smoked paprika, a drizzle of hot sauce, or even a dollop of guacamole can add fantastic new flavors and a vibrant finish that takes your Loaded Smashed Potatoes with Bacon, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe to the next level.
Side Dishes
These potatoes are hearty enough to star on their own but also pair beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Their savory, crispy goodness complements lighter sides to create a balanced, satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your smashed potatoes in individual ramekins with toppings layered in colorful portions, or pile them high on a rustic wooden board for a casual sharing platter. Either way, these eye-catching Loaded Smashed Potatoes with Bacon, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe will be the centerpiece everyone’s talking about.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Refrigerate any leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keeping the toppings separate, especially the sour cream and chives, will help them stay fresher and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
This Loaded Smashed Potatoes with Bacon, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe doesn’t freeze as well once assembled due to the sour cream and bacon textures. However, you can freeze plain cooked and smashed potatoes before baking, then crisp them up fresh in the oven for best results.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy magic, reheat your leftovers in a hot oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, which tends to make crispy potatoes soggy.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Absolutely! While new potatoes, baby reds, or Yukon Golds work best for their creamy interiors and firm skins, you can experiment with fingerlings or even small russet potatoes if you prefer.
How do I make the bacon extra crispy?
Cooking bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s golden and firm is key. You can also finish it in the oven on a baking sheet for evenly crisp slices with less mess.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use smoked paprika or a sprinkle of smoked salt to retain that tasty smoky flavor.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can boil and smash the potatoes a few hours ahead and refrigerate them. Just bake and add toppings right before serving for peak freshness.
What cheese works best besides cheddar?
Sharp cheddar brings a classic flavor, but you can also try gouda, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses for a delightful twist.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Smashed Potatoes with Bacon, Cheddar, and Chives Recipe is a true celebration of flavors and textures that’s surprisingly simple to make yet unforgettable every single time. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just yourself, these potatoes will bring smiles and satisfied sighs all around. Give this recipe a try soon—you’ll be so glad you did.
