Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes 

These Cheesy Bacon Loaded Smashed Potatoes are a delightful twist on the classic baked potato, combining crispy edges with a creamy, cheesy center. The addition of crispy bacon bits and a dollop of sour cream elevates this dish, making it a perfect side for weeknight dinners or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for gatherings. The balance of textures and flavors ensures each bite is satisfying and indulgent. Whether served alongside grilled meats or enjoyed on their own, these loaded smashed potatoes are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs baby yellow potatoes
  
  

• Salt and pepper, to taste
  
  

• 1–2 tbsp olive oil
  
  

• ¾ cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  
  

• 5 slices bacon, chopped and cooked
  
  

• ¼ cup sour cream
  
  

• 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
  
  

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   
   

2. Boil the baby yellow potatoes in a large pot of salted water for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
   
   

3. While the potatoes are boiling, chop the bacon into small pieces and cook in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.
   
   

4. Chop the fresh chives and set aside.
   
   

5. Place the boiled potatoes on the prepared baking sheet. Using the bottom of a glass or a potato masher, gently smash each potato to flatten it slightly, keeping the skin intact.
   
   

6. Brush each smashed potato with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
   
   

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy. For extra crispiness, bake for an additional 5 minutes.
   
   

8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Return to the oven for about 2 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
   
   

9. Top each potato with crispy bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of fresh chives. Serve immediately and enjoy!
   
   

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 522 kcal
  
  

• Carbohydrates: 42 g
  
  

• Protein: 16 g
  
  

• Fat: 33 g
  
  

• Saturated Fat: 13 g
  
  

• Polyunsaturated Fat: 3 g
  
  

• Monounsaturated Fat: 13 g
  
  

• Trans Fat: 0.05 g
  
  

• Cholesterol: 64 mg
  
  

• Sodium: 447 mg
  
  

• Potassium: 1073 mg
  
  

• Fiber: 5 g
  
  

• Sugar: 3 g
  
  

• Vitamin A: 421 IU
  
  

• Vitamin C: 45 mg
  
  

• Calcium: 248 mg
  
  

• Iron: 2 mg