Introduction:
Roasted potatoes with bacon are a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect as a side or even a main course. The crispy potatoes combined with the salty, smoky bacon create a symphony of textures and tastes that’s hard to resist. This recipe is easy to follow and customizable to your preferences.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cubed
* 8 ounces bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon paprika
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* Salt to taste
* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare Potatoes:** Wash and cube the potatoes into roughly 1-inch pieces.
3. **Cook Bacon:** In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
4. **Roast Potatoes:** Add the cubed potatoes to the skillet with the bacon grease. Toss to coat.
5. **Season:** Sprinkle the potatoes with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss again to ensure even seasoning.
6. **Roast:** Roast in the preheated oven for 30-45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and golden brown, flipping halfway through for even browning.
7. **Combine:** Remove the skillet from the oven. Add the cooked bacon back to the skillet and toss with the potatoes.
8. **Garnish:** Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
**Methods:**
* **Roasting:** Roasting at high temperatures caramelizes the potatoes, creating a crispy exterior and fluffy interior.
* **Rendering Bacon:** Cooking the bacon first renders its fat, which is then used to roast the potatoes, infusing them with smoky flavor.
**History:**
Potatoes have been a staple food for centuries, originating in South America. Roasting potatoes is a simple and ancient cooking method. The addition of bacon, a popular cured meat, elevates the dish with its rich flavor.
**Benefits:**
* **Potatoes:** Good source of carbohydrates, vitamin C, and potassium.
* **Bacon:** Provides protein and adds flavor, but should be consumed in moderation due to its high fat and sodium content.
**Formation:**
The combination of potatoes and bacon creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. The crispy potatoes provide a satisfying crunch, while the bacon adds a salty, smoky richness.
**Nutrition (per serving, approximate):**
* Calories: 350-400
* Fat: 20-25g
* Protein: 10-15g
* Carbohydrates: 30-35g
**Conclusion:**
Roasted potatoes with bacon are a crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of simple ingredients and easy preparation makes it a go-to recipe for many.
**Lovers:**
This dish is loved by people of all ages for its comforting flavors and satisfying textures. It’s a great option for family dinners, potlucks, or even a quick weeknight meal.
I hope this comprehensive recipe is helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.
