Cheesy red potatoes are golden, creamy, and oh-so-delicious! With chunks of tender red potatoes smothered in melted cheese, they’re a comforting side dish everyone loves.
What I adore about these potatoes is how easy they are to make! Just toss them with cheese and bake until bubbly. Trust me, they’ll disappear faster than you can say “seconds, please!” 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Red Potatoes: These are great for their creamy texture when roasted. If you don’t have red potatoes, you can use Yukon Gold potatoes, as they have a similar texture. Just avoid starchy types like Russets for this recipe!
Olive Oil or Butter: Both work well, but I lean towards olive oil for a lighter touch. If you’re dairy-free, stick with olive oil. You can also use avocado oil for a different flavor.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice kick, but if you prefer a milder flavor, use mild cheddar. For different tastes, try a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a richer profile.
Bacon: While cooked bacon adds a nice crunch, turkey bacon or crumbled tofu can be a great substitute for a healthier option or if you’re vegetarian. Don’t worry, it’ll still taste great!
Sour Cream and Mayonnaise: Sour cream gives tanginess, while mayo adds creaminess. If you’re looking to lighten it up, Greek yogurt is a fantastic alternative for both ingredients.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Roasted Potatoes?
The key to delicious roasted potatoes is even cooking and getting that crispy texture! Here’s how to make sure they turn out perfectly every time:
- Cut potatoes into equal-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Toss potato chunks thoroughly in oil or butter so they’re well-coated; this promotes browning.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet! Lay them out in a single layer for crispiness.
- Stir halfway through; this helps achieve an even roast on all sides.
Keep an eye on them towards the end to avoid burning, and they’re done when they’re golden on the outside and soft inside!
How to Make Cheesy Red Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Potatoes:
- 2 lbs red potatoes, washed and quartered
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried parsley or Italian seasoning
For The Cheese and Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, according to preference)
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-40 minutes total once you include roasting and any optional cheese melting. In about an hour, you’ll have a big bowl of cheesy, delicious potatoes ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures you’ll have a hot oven ready for roasting!
2. Toss the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the quartered red potatoes with olive oil or melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and your choice of dried parsley or Italian seasoning. Make sure every piece is well-coated!
3. Roast the Potatoes:
Spread the seasoned potatoes evenly on a baking sheet or in an ovenproof dish. Pop them in the oven and roast for 25-30 minutes. Check them halfway through and give them a stir for even roasting. You want them crispy on the edges and tender inside!
4. Mix with Creamy Ingredients:
Once done, remove the potatoes and transfer them into a large mixing bowl. While they’re still hot, add the sour cream, mayonnaise (if using), and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Gently mix everything together so that the cheese starts to melt into the potatoes.
5. Add Bacon and Chives:
Next, fold in the crumbled bacon and chopped chives. Remember to keep some chives aside for garnishing later!
6. Final Touches:
Transfer this cheesy potato mixture back into the baking dish or a serving bowl. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top for that gooey finish.
7. Melt the Cheese (Optional):
If you want that perfectly melted and bubbly cheese effect, you can put the dish back in the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Once ready, take the dish out and garnish with the remaining fresh chives. Serve warm and get ready for compliments!
Enjoy your deliciously cheesy red potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While red potatoes are ideal for their creamy texture, you can substitute with Yukon Gold or even fingerling potatoes. Just ensure they are all cut to similar sizes for even cooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Mayonnaise?
If you want to skip the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt is a great substitute that offers creaminess and a bit of tang without the extra calories. You can also just increase the sour cream for a simpler option!
How Do I Store Leftover Cheesy Red Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or warm them in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make These Potatoes Spicier?
Definitely! You can add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick. Incorporating a bit of hot sauce into the cheese mixture can also elevate the heat level while keeping it creamy.
