If there’s one dish that instantly transports me back to my family’s kitchen, it’s these Bacon-Roasted Fingerling Potatoes. This simple yet decadent recipe has a special place in my heart, rooted in countless cherished family gatherings and lazy weekend brunches.
I remember the first time I made these potatoes. It was a crisp autumn afternoon, and the golden leaves outside mirrored the crispy, golden edges of the fingerling potatoes roasting in the oven. My family had gathered for one of our traditional Sunday brunches, a time when we’d all come together to share stories, laughter, and of course, food. My grandmother, who was known for her love of simple yet flavorful dishes, had passed down her secret to making roasted potatoes. She used to say, “The key to great roasted potatoes is in the love and patience you put into them.” That day, I wanted to add a twist to her classic recipe, so I decided to incorporate bacon—something that instantly elevates any dish with its smoky, savory goodness.
As the potatoes roasted, the kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of sizzling bacon mingling with garlic and fresh herbs. My family gathered around the kitchen island, eagerly waiting to sample the latest creation. The moment the potatoes were out of the oven, golden and crisp with bits of bacon perfectly caramelized, they disappeared faster than I could keep up. I’ll never forget the delighted looks on everyone’s faces as they enjoyed those potatoes, crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. It was a simple dish, but it brought us all together in a way that only food can.
This Bacon-Roasted Fingerling Potatoes recipe is more than just a side dish; it’s a reminder of those precious moments spent with loved ones. The combination of crispy bacon and tender potatoes creates a perfect harmony of textures and flavors that is both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply looking for a hearty weeknight side, these potatoes are sure to become a favorite.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let the magic happen. These Bacon-Roasted Fingerling Potatoes will not only fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas but will also add a touch of warmth and nostalgia to your meal.
How to Make Bacon-Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
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Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds small fingerling potatoes
- 2 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced (use 3 slices if using regular bacon)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs for garnish (such as parsley or basil)
- Coarse sea salt for finishing
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare a baking sheet, ensuring the potatoes have enough space to roast evenly without crowding.
- Dice the bacon into small pieces, approximately 1/2 to 3/4 inch.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the fingerling potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, onion powder, and black pepper. Toss until all potatoes are well coated.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes on the prepared baking sheet.
- Distribute the diced bacon over the potatoes, ensuring an even layer.
- Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Stir the potatoes and bacon, then continue roasting for an additional 15 minutes.
- Test the potatoes for tenderness by inserting a fork. They should be easily pierced. If not, stir and roast for another 5-10 minutes until done.
- Once the potatoes are cooked through and the bacon is crispy, remove from the oven. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt before serving hot.
Storing Suggestion
Store any leftover roasted fingerling potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results to regain crispiness.
Cooking Tips
For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. You can also try different herbs like rosemary or thyme for varied flavors.
Serving Suggestions
These roasted potatoes make a great side dish for meats like roasted chicken or steak. They also pair well with a simple green salad or can be served as a hearty addition to a brunch spread.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer, you can substitute the bacon with pancetta or turkey bacon for a different taste. Olive oil can be replaced with melted butter for a richer flavor.
Seasonal Variations
In spring, try adding fresh asparagus or bell peppers to the roasting pan. During autumn, you can incorporate cubed butternut squash for a seasonal twist.
FAQ:
Can I use regular potatoes instead of fingerling potatoes?
Yes, you can use regular potatoes. Just cut them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
How can I make these potatoes crispy?
Make sure the potatoes are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet and avoid overcrowding. Stirring them halfway through roasting helps achieve crispiness.
Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?
While the potatoes are best served fresh, you can prepare them ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat them in the oven to restore their crispiness.
What can I serve with these roasted potatoes?
These potatoes pair well with a variety of main dishes such as grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a topping for salads.
Can I freeze leftover roasted potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze leftover potatoes. Allow them to cool completely before freezing in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven to retain texture.
How do I adjust the seasoning for a different flavor profile?
You can experiment with different spices and herbs such as paprika, cayenne pepper, or rosemary to suit your taste preferences.
Bacon-Roasted Fingerling Potatoes
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds small fingerling potatoes
- 2 slices of thick-cut bacon chopped (If using regular bacon, increase to three slices.)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon fresh herbs for garnish suggested: parsley or basil
- Coarse sea salt for sprinkling
Instructions
- Start by preheating your oven to 425°F.
- Choose a baking sheet that allows the potatoes to spread out evenly, avoiding overcrowding, to ensure crispiness.
- Chop the bacon into small, 1/2 to 3/4-inch pieces.
- In a large bowl, toss the fingerling potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, onion powder, and black pepper until they are evenly coated.
- Transfer the potatoes onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Scatter the chopped bacon over the potatoes, making sure it's evenly distributed.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 15 minutes. After that, stir the potatoes and bacon, then return to the oven for another 15 minutes.
- Check the doneness of the potatoes by piercing them with a fork. If they slide off easily, they are done. If not, stir the mixture again and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes.
- Once the potatoes are tender and the bacon is crisp, remove them from the oven. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of coarse sea salt. Serve hot.
