Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes – Sweet, Smoky & Delicious!

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures that the potatoes roast to a crispy texture on the outside while staying tender on the inside.
2. Prepare the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until it becomes crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess grease. Set aside. Keep a small amount of bacon drippings in the skillet to add flavor to the potatoes.
3. Prepare the potatoes: While the bacon is cooking, wash and scrub the baby potatoes. Cut them in half or quarters (depending on the size of the potatoes) so they cook evenly. You can also leave the skins on for added texture and nutrients.
4. Toss the potatoes: In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, honey, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir the ingredients together to form a smooth coating. Add the cut potatoes to the bowl and toss them well until all the pieces are evenly coated with the honey and spice mixture.
5. Roast the potatoes: Spread the coated potatoes evenly onto a large baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure there’s enough space between them so they can crisp up nicely. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, turning the potatoes halfway through to ensure even cooking. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside while tender on the inside.
6. Add the bacon: Once the potatoes are roasted, remove them from the oven and sprinkle the cooked bacon over the top. Toss gently to mix the bacon in with the potatoes.
7. Garnish and serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Serve hot as a side dish to your favorite meal, and watch them disappear!

Tips:

• Customize the flavors: For an extra layer of flavor, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar right before serving. The acidity will balance out the richness of the honey and bacon.
• Potato variety: Baby potatoes work best for this recipe due to their tenderness and ability to crisp up nicely. However, you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes if that’s what you have on hand.
• Make it spicy: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mixture. The spice pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the honey and the smokiness of the bacon.
• Double the recipe: This recipe is perfect for a crowd, so feel free to double or even triple the quantities to serve a larger group. Just be sure to use more baking sheets to avoid overcrowding.

Variations:

• Maple Bacon Roasted Potatoes: Swap out the honey for maple syrup for a slightly different sweet flavor. The rich, earthy maple syrup works beautifully with the smoky bacon.
• Cheesy Bacon Potatoes: After roasting the potatoes, sprinkle grated cheddar or Parmesan cheese over the top and return them to the oven for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• Herb Roasted Potatoes: Add dried or fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the seasoning mixture for a fragrant, herbaceous twist.

Serving Suggestions:

These Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a wide variety of main dishes. Here are a few ideas:

• Serve them alongside grilled chicken or steak for a hearty and comforting meal.
• Pair with roast pork or barbecued ribs for a smoky, flavor-packed feast.
• Add them to a brunch spread with eggs and avocado for a delicious and satisfying start to the day.
• They also make a perfect addition to a holiday meal or potluck, where they’ll surely impress guests with their sweet and savory flavor.

Conclusion:

Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes are the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these potatoes are a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s simple to prepare but loaded with flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a memorable dish that will complement any meal. Whether you’re serving them on a weeknight or at a special occasion, these potatoes are sure to be a hit every time. So grab some potatoes, bacon, and honey, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously irresistible dish!