Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes
Description:
These Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes are the perfect combination of savory and sweet. Tender baby potatoes are tossed with crispy bacon, a touch of honey, and olive oil, then roasted to golden perfection. The result is a dish with crispy edges, a rich savory flavor from the bacon, and a subtle sweetness from the honey. It’s the ultimate side dish that’s sure to be a hit at any meal—from weeknight dinners to holiday gatherings. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, these roasted potatoes are an easy way to elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 6 slices of bacon, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. - Prepare the potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the halved baby potatoes with the bacon pieces, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is evenly coated, so each potato gets some of that delicious bacon and honey mixture. - Roast the potatoes:
Spread the potato and bacon mixture onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the oven for 30-35 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy on the edges. - Serve:
Remove the roasted potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!
Storage & Reheating Tips:
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover roasted potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, these potatoes can be frozen. Let them cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheating:
- Oven: For the best texture, reheat the potatoes in the oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
- Microwave: You can microwave leftovers for 1-2 minutes, though they won’t be as crispy as when reheated in the oven. If desired, place them on a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
Tip: To re-crisp frozen or refrigerated potatoes, you can place them under the broiler for 2-3 minutes to regain that crispiness.
20 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I use regular potatoes instead of baby potatoes?
Yes, you can use any type of potato, though baby potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their smaller size and quicker cooking time. Cut larger potatoes into similar-sized chunks. - Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon can be substituted if you’re looking for a lower-fat option, though the flavor will be slightly different. - What kind of honey works best for this recipe?
Any mild-flavored honey works well, such as clover honey. Avoid strong-flavored varieties like buckwheat honey, as they may overpower the dish. - Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the potatoes and bacon mixture the night before, cover it, and refrigerate it. Roast them the next day for a quick and easy side dish. - Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, omit the bacon and substitute with vegetarian-friendly options like smoked tempeh or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a savory flavor. - How do I prevent the potatoes from sticking to the baking sheet?
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. - Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?
Yes, you can substitute olive oil with vegetable oil, canola oil, or even melted butter for a richer flavor. - How do I know when the potatoes are done roasting?
The potatoes are done when they are golden brown and crispy on the edges. You can also pierce them with a fork to check if they are tender inside. - Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or Brussels sprouts. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes to the potatoes for even roasting. - Can I cook these potatoes in an air fryer?
Yes! Toss the potatoes and bacon mixture in olive oil and honey, then place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through. - What can I serve with Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes?
These potatoes pair well with grilled meats, such as chicken, steak, or pork chops. They also make a great side for brunch with eggs and toast. - Can I use maple syrup instead of honey?
Yes, you can substitute maple syrup for honey. This will give the potatoes a more caramelized flavor. - What can I garnish the potatoes with besides parsley?
Fresh chives, thyme, or rosemary would also make great garnishes. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add a savory touch as well. - How do I keep the bacon from getting too crispy?
Make sure to stir the potatoes halfway through roasting to evenly distribute the bacon and prevent over-crisping. - Can I use bacon bits instead of fresh bacon?
While you can use pre-packaged bacon bits, fresh bacon will yield the best flavor and texture in this recipe. - Can I reduce the sweetness of the potatoes?
Yes, you can use less honey or omit it entirely if you prefer a more savory flavor. The potatoes and bacon still have a lot of flavor without the honey. - What is the best way to cut baby potatoes?
Slice the baby potatoes in half or quarters depending on their size. The goal is to cut them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. - Can I roast these potatoes at a lower temperature?
While 400°F is optimal for crispy edges, you can roast them at a lower temperature (e.g., 375°F) if you prefer a slower roast. Just be sure to cook them for a bit longer. - Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe. Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet or roast them in batches to allow the potatoes to cook evenly. - Can I skip the parsley garnish?
The parsley is optional, but it adds a nice pop of color and freshness. If you prefer, you can skip it or substitute with another herb.
20 Best Tips to Make This Recipe:
- Use new potatoes for the best texture, as they hold their shape well when roasted.
- Cut potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
- Toss the potatoes thoroughly with the honey, olive oil, and bacon to ensure every piece is coated.
- Use a high-quality olive oil to add depth of flavor to the dish.
- Make sure the potatoes are in a single layer on the baking sheet to ensure they crisp up properly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—if the baking sheet is too full, the potatoes may steam instead of crisping.
- Use a spatula to flip the potatoes halfway through for even roasting and to prevent burning.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika to the seasoning for a smoky flavor.
- Roast at a high temperature (400°F) for the best crispy texture.
- Crisp the bacon before adding it to the potatoes if you prefer it extra crispy.
- Serve immediately while the potatoes are hot and crispy for the best texture.
- Top with crumbled blue cheese or goat cheese for added richness.
- Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fragrant touch.
- Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze after roasting for extra tanginess.
- Use a silicone baking mat to prevent the potatoes from sticking to the sheet and for easy cleanup.
- Don’t skip stirring halfway through; it helps the potatoes cook evenly.
- Use real honey for the best flavor, as artificial honey syrups may not produce the same results.
- Make sure to season generously with salt and pepper to balance the sweetness of the honey.
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
- Pair with a creamy dip, like sour cream or ranch dressing, for an extra indulgent side dish.
These Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes are a simple yet irresistible side dish, bursting with flavor and texture. Perfect for any occasion, they will quickly become a family favorite! Enjoy
