Are you ready to elevate your side dish game? Look no further than this delightful Air Fryer Cheesy Bacon Potatoes recipe!
Combining the crispy goodness of bacon with the creamy richness of cheese, these potatoes are not only easy to make but also a surefire hit
at family dinners or gatherings. With the air fryer, you can achieve that perfect crunch without the excess oil, making this dish a healthier
option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients
To whip up these delicious Air Fryer Cheesy Bacon Potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:
1.5 pounds of baby potatoes (or any small potatoes)
4 slices of bacon, chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh chives or green onions for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes
Wash and Cut: Start by washing the baby potatoes thoroughly. Cut them in half or quarters, depending on their size. The goal is to have uniform pieces for even cooking.
Season: In a large bowl, toss the cut potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Make sure they are well-coated for maximum flavor.
Cook the Bacon
Crisp the Bacon: In your air fryer, add the chopped bacon and cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until crispy. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the air fryer for added flavor.
Air Fry the Potatoes
Air Fry: Place the seasoned potatoes in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even cooking. The potatoes should be golden brown and fork-tender when done.
Combine and Add Cheese
Mix It Up: Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully transfer them to a mixing bowl. Add the crispy bacon and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Toss everything together until well combined.
Melt the Cheese: Return the mixture to the air fryer basket, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and air fry for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and Enjoy
Garnish: Once the cheesy bacon potatoes are ready, remove them from the air fryer and garnish with fresh chives or green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, crispy goodness!
Tips for Making the Dish Even Better
Choose the Right Potatoes: Baby potatoes are perfect for this recipe, but you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
Experiment with Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to mix it up with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend of your favorites for a unique twist.
Add Veggies: For a more colorful dish, consider adding bell peppers, jalapeños, or even broccoli to the mix before air frying.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix.
Variations for Different Tastes
Herb Lovers: Add dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning to the potato mixture for an aromatic touch.
BBQ Twist: Drizzle some BBQ sauce over the potatoes before adding the cheese for a smoky flavor.
Vegan Option: Substitute bacon with tempeh or mushrooms and use vegan cheese for a plant-based version of this dish.
Final Note
This Air Fryer Cheesy Bacon Potatoes recipe is not just a side dish; it’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily steal the spotlight at any meal. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, these cheesy, crispy potatoes are sure to impress.
We’d love to hear about your experiences with this recipe! Did you try any variations? How did your family enjoy it? Share your thoughts and creativity in the comments below. Happy cooking!
