Imagine biting into a crispy potato slice topped with gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh green onions. These cheesy bacon potato bites are not just a recipe; they’re a delightful way to elevate your appetizer game! Whether you’re hosting a party or simply indulging in some comfort food, these bites are sure to impress.

You’ll want to whip up a double batch, trust me! They are perfect for sharing (or not!) and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce. No judgments here when it comes to snacking!

Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Bacon Potato Bites

Packed with Flavor: Each bite has the perfect balance of crispy edges, melty cheese, salty bacon, and a hint of seasoning that makes every mouthful utterly satisfying.

Party-Perfect: These potato bites are just the right size for grabbing and munching at social gatherings, making them a hit among guests.

Budget-Friendly: With common ingredients straight from your pantry, these bites are easy on the wallet.

Customizable: Feel free to mix things up! Use different cheeses, toppings, or seasonings to make this recipe your own.

Ingredients

• Medium-Sized Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold work best, offering a sturdy base that crisps up beautifully.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese: For that gooey, melty topping that everyone loves.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch that elevates these bites to another level.
• Green Onions: Necessary for a fresh flavor and a pop of color.
• Olive Oil: Helps achieve a perfect golden-brown exterior.
• Seasonings: A mix of garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika adds depth of flavor.
• Sour Cream or Ranch Dressing: Optional dips that add a cool, creamy contrast to the hot, crispy bites.

How to Make Cheesy Bacon Potato Bites

Get ready to enjoy these delectable bites by following these easy steps!

1. Prepare the potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or grease lightly. Arrange the potato slices in a single layer on the baking sheet.
2. Season the potatoes: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture on both sides of each potato slice for maximum flavor.
3. Bake the potato rounds: Bake the potatoes in the oven for about 20 minutes. Flip the slices and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until they turn golden brown and crisp on the edges.
4. Add the cheese and bacon: Once they’re baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle a generous portion of shredded cheddar cheese on each slice. Top them off with crumbled bacon.
5. Melt the toppings: Return the loaded potato slices to the oven and bake for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and serve: Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions. Serve them warm with sour cream or ranch dressing on the side for dipping!

Tips for the Best Cheesy Bacon Potato Bites

Follow these insider tips to ensure your potato bites are absolutely perfect!

• Pick the perfect potatoes: Choose starchy Russet potatoes for extra crispiness or creamy Yukon Gold for a softer inside. Keep them cut to 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking.
• Prep for success: Patting the potato slices dry before oiling helps them crisp up better in the oven.
• Don’t skimp on the seasoning: Make sure each slice is coated well with oil and seasonings for maximum flavor.
• Don’t overcrowd! Leave some space between potato slices on the baking sheet to allow for proper cooking and crisping.
• Make them extra crispy: After the first bake, broil the potato slices for 2-3 minutes before adding cheese and bacon to enhance their crunchiness. Just keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
• Cheese choice matters: Opt for freshly grated cheese over pre-packaged. Sharp cheddar offers the best flavor.
• Explore creative variations: Swap out bacon for chorizo or ham, try different cheeses, or even add jalapeños for a spicy twist!
• Serve them your way: Warm your serving platter for longer-lasting heat and offer a variety of dips, or serve with a fresh green salad for a wholesome meal.

How to Store

Keep those delicious potato bites ready for future snacking with these storage tips!

To Store: Let the bites cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.

To Reheat: For the crispiest results, reheat your potato bites in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can mic them for 1-2 minutes, but they might lose some crispiness that way.