Description
Craving a crispy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing side dish? These Cheesy Loaded Smashed Potatoes hit all the right notes. Perfectly golden and crispy on the edges, fluffy in the middle, and loaded with cheddar, bacon, and chives—this easy recipe is a game-changer. It’s an ideal option for those in search of quick dinner ideas, irresistible party food, or a creative alternative to boring sides. Whether you’re after a hearty snack, a show-stopping appetizer, or a cozy comfort food side, these smashed potatoes deliver big flavor with little effort. Think crispy roasted potatoes meets fully loaded baked potato—all in one bite. Perfect for family dinners, game nights, or weekend brunch spreads.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds baby potatoes (Yukon Gold or red)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- Optional: sour cream, ranch dressing, pickled jalapeños, parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Boil potatoes in salted water for about 15 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and allow to dry.
- Arrange potatoes on the baking sheet. Gently smash each one to about ½ inch thickness.
- Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- Roast in oven for 20–25 minutes, until crispy and golden.
- Remove from oven and top with cheddar cheese and bacon bits.
- Return to oven for 5–7 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Garnish with chopped chives and serve hot with optional toppings if desired.