These baby potatoes with onion and bacon bring a tasty twist to your meals. The crispy bacon perfectly complements the soft, buttery potatoes, creating a crowd-pleaser!
Honestly, who can resist that smoky bacon smell? I always find myself sneaking a few bites before they reach the table. Try pairing them with fresh herbs for a pop of color!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: These little gems are perfect because they hold their shape well. If you can’t find baby potatoes, you can use small regular potatoes, just cut them into smaller chunks.
Bacon: Bacon brings great flavor and crunch! If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or even diced smoked sausage can work as a substitution.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and depth. If you prefer, shallots are a wonderful substitute for a milder taste. I often use red onions for color and flavor.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the dish. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can be used—just a teaspoon will do!
Thyme: If you have fresh thyme on hand, it will provide a lovely aroma. Otherwise, dried thyme works just fine, but use a bit less since dried herbs are more potent.
How Can I Get the Potatoes Crispy and Delicious?
To ensure your potatoes are crispy and delicious, follow these tips:
- Start with a hot skillet and let the cut sides of the potatoes sear without moving them. This helps create that crispy texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Give potatoes enough room so they can brown instead of steam.
- After flipping them, let them cook undisturbed to achieve that golden brown finish.
- Add the garlic at the end—this prevents it from burning and keeps its vibrant flavor.
These techniques will help you achieve perfectly cooked and crispy potatoes every time!
Baby Potatoes With Onion And Bacon
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved if large
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if available)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick and delicious side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Potatoes:
Start by washing your baby potatoes thoroughly. If they are larger, cut them in half to ensure they cook evenly. Set them aside while you work on the bacon and other ingredients.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook it until it gets crispy and golden. Once it’s cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess fat, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet for flavor.
3. Sauté the Potatoes:
Now, add the olive oil to the bacon grease in the skillet and heat it up over medium heat. Add the halved baby potatoes to the skillet, cut side down. Let them cook for about 5-7 minutes until they get a nice brown color on that cut side. Resist the urge to stir them too much at this stage!
4. Add the Onions:
Once the potatoes are browned, flip them over carefully. Now it’s time to add the thinly sliced onions to the skillet with the potatoes. Stir everything together! Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are soft and translucent, and the potatoes are tender. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the minced garlic to the mix. This will ensure the garlic stays flavorful and doesn’t burn.
5. Combine to Finish:
Stir in the cooked bacon and the dried thyme with the potatoes and onions. Season everything with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let it all cook together for another 2-3 minutes so the flavors can mix.
6. Serve:
Once done, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish your delicious mixture with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dish!
Enjoy your flavorful baby potatoes with onion and bacon!
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While baby potatoes are preferred for their tender texture, you can use small new potatoes or even regular potatoes cut into smaller pieces. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as larger potatoes may take longer to cook through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to prevent sticking.
Can I Make This Vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Swap the bacon for a plant-based alternative like smoked tempeh or omit it entirely, adding some smoked paprika for flavor. You might also want to increase the amount of garlic and herbs to enhance the dish’s overall taste.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
These baby potatoes pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even as a hearty addition to a salad. They also make a great side for festive meals or barbecues!