Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food

If you’re searching for a dish that perfectly combines cheesy goodness, crispy bacon, and the irresistible flavor of ranch, look no further than Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food! This easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a family favorite, whether you’re serving it as a side dish or enjoying it on its own. Let’s dive into the deliciousness of this hearty and satisfying dish!

What Are Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potatoes?

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potatoes are a mouthwatering medley of diced potatoes tossed in a creamy ranch dressing, then baked to perfection and topped with melted cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. This dish captures all the flavors of a classic loaded potato but with a fun and flavorful twist.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up these tasty potatoes:

• 4 medium potatoes (cubed into bite sized gems)
• 1/2 teaspoon All-Purpose Seasoning
• 2 tablespoons Salted Butter
• 4 strips of bacon cooked (crumbled)
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1-2 tablespoon dry ranch dressing mix
• 1 teaspoon Parsley Flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Clean and Slice the Potatoes

Once the potatoes have been washed, slice them into bite sized gems.  Then rinse them in cool water.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

Place the rinsed potato gems in a medium sized saucepan of water, uncovered.  Place on the stove on medium to high heat until boiling.  Then reduce the heat to medium to low heat.  It should be a slow, low boil.  Boil until the potatoes are fork tender.  It will take about 10-15 minutes depending on the size of the potatoes.

Step 3: Prepare the Bacon

While the potatoes are cooking, cook 4 strips of bacon until tender crisp.  Cut or crumble them.  Set them aside.  The aroma is absolutely irresistible!

Step 4: Drain the Potatoes

Remove the pan from the heat and drain the potatoes.

Step 5: Add the Good Stuff

Now we’re going to add the good stuff!  Place the potatoes in a microwave safe bowl or platter.  Add the butter, All-Purpose Seasoning, and the dry ranch dressing mix.  Toss to melt the butter and coat the potatoes with all this yummy goodness.  Top with the shredded cheddar cheese and the bacon crumbles.

Step 6: Melting the Cheese & Bacon

Place the bowl or platter of potatoes that is topped with cheese and bacon in the microwave.  Microwave in 1-minute intervals until the cheese and melted.  Do not stir during or after microwaving.

Step 7: Serving

Sprinkle with Parsley Flakes and serve immediately.

Tips for Customization

• Add Veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or onions with the potatoes for an extra veggie boost.
• Spicy Kick: If you like heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.  The smoky flavor of chipotle seasoning is so delicious!
• Make It Cheesy: For extra cheesiness, top with more cheese or another favorite cheese type.

Conclusion

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will please even the pickiest eaters. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day snacks, this dish is sure to be a hit! Give this recipe a try and enjoy the cheesy, savory goodness that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Happy cooking!