Only 2 Main Ingredients! Cooking Potatoes with Bacon is So Simple and Delicious
Are you craving a hearty and satisfying dish that requires minimal effort and packs a punch of flavor? Look no further! This recipe for cooking potatoes with bacon is a true winner, featuring just two main ingredients but delivering a mouthwatering combination that will leave your taste buds singing. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just treating yourself to a cozy meal at home, this simple yet delicious recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Let’s dive into the details of this comforting dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 Potatoes (of your choice)
- Bacon slices (as desired)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Wash the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel and then slice them into thin rounds or wedges, depending on your preference. Leave the skin on for added texture and flavor.
- Prepare the Bacon:
- If using whole bacon slices, you can either leave them whole or cut them into smaller pieces for easier handling.
- Assemble the Dish:
- Arrange the potato slices or wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking.
- Place the bacon slices or pieces on top of the potatoes, distributing them evenly across the baking sheet.
- Bake in the Oven:
- Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, and the bacon is crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the potatoes and bacon cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the potatoes and bacon hot, garnished with your favorite toppings such as chopped fresh herbs, grated cheese, or a dollop of sour cream.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Seasoning Options: Feel free to season the potatoes with your favorite herbs and spices before baking. Garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, or thyme are all delicious options.
- Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle grated cheese over the potatoes and bacon during the last few minutes of baking for an extra layer of flavor and indulgence.
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the bacon and season the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe? Yes, you can use any type of potato you prefer, whether it’s russet, Yukon Gold, or red potatoes. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type and thickness of the potato slices.
- Do I need to peel the potatoes before baking them? It’s entirely up to you! Leaving the skin on adds texture and flavor to the dish, but if you prefer peeled potatoes, feel free to peel them before slicing.
- How long should I bake the potatoes and bacon in the oven? Bake the potatoes and bacon for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, and the bacon is crispy. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent burning.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? While this dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, you can prepare the potatoes and bacon in advance and reheat them in the oven or microwave before serving. Just be aware that the bacon may lose some of its crispiness upon reheating.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here’s a modified version of the recipe:
- Replace regular potatoes with low-carb alternatives such as cauliflower or turnips.
- Use sugar-free bacon or turkey bacon to reduce the carb content.
- Season the potatoes with keto-friendly herbs and spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
Cooking potatoes with bacon is a simple yet incredibly satisfying way to create a delicious meal with just two main ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for your next gathering, this versatile dish is sure to impress. With endless opportunities for customization and flavor experimentation, you can make it your own and enjoy it time and time again. So why wait? Grab your potatoes and bacon, and get cooking!
