Bacon Wrapped Potato Bites are little nuggets of joy! These crispy potatoes are hugged by savory bacon, making them extra tasty and fun to eat.
Honestly, who doesn’t love bacon? I can never stop at just one. They’re perfect for parties or movie nights. Just pop them in the oven, and get ready for some yummy goodness!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Potatoes: Small potatoes are perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find baby potatoes, try using fingerlings or even diced large potatoes. Just cut them into 1-1.5 inch pieces.
Bacon: I love using thick-cut bacon for extra flavor and a hearty crispy bite. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon works, just keep in mind it may not get as crispy.
Olive Oil: It helps the seasonings stick to the potatoes. You can substitute with melted butter or avocado oil for a different flavor.
Garlic Powder: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you’d rather use fresh garlic, 1-2 minced cloves would work great!
Smoked Paprika: This option gives a smoky flavor to the dish. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or chili powder can also add some kick.
How Do I Ensure My Bacon Gets Crispy?
Getting crispy bacon around your potato bites is key to the dish. Here’s how:
- Cut your bacon in half for the perfect wrapping size. Make sure to wrap it tightly around each potato.
- Arrange them seam side down to help keep the bacon in place during baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet. Give those potatoes space to crisp up!
- Turning them halfway through ensures even cooking and crispness on all sides.
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously crispy bites every time!
How to Make Bacon Wrapped Potato Bites
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 20 small baby potatoes (about 1 to 1.5 inches each)
- 10 slices of bacon (cut in half)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
- Optional: ranch dressing or dipping sauce of choice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for preparation and 30-40 minutes for baking in the oven. In total, you’ll need about 50 minutes to have these delicious bacon-wrapped potato bites ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is a great temperature to get that bacon crispy! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and dry the baby potatoes thoroughly. If you want them to cook faster and be extra tender, consider parboiling them in boiling water for about 8 minutes. After that, let them cool slightly. This step is optional but can help your potatoes cook through perfectly!
3. Season the Potatoes:
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure they’re evenly coated so every bite is full of flavor!
4. Wrap with Bacon:
Take a half slice of bacon and wrap it snugly around each potato. If your bacon doesn’t stay put, you can secure it with a toothpick. This is essential for keeping that deliciousness inside!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Lay the bacon-wrapped potatoes seam side down on the lined baking sheet. Make sure they’re not too crowded to allow airflow for crispiness.
6. Bake Them Up:
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven and let them bake for about 30-40 minutes. Halfway through, give them a flip so every side can get nice and crispy! Keep an eye on them—you want that bacon to be golden and crispy, and the potatoes to be tender when poked with a fork.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked to perfection, take them out of the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for color and flavor. Serve these tasty bites warm alongside ranch dressing or your favorite dipping sauce!
Enjoy these crispy, savory bites as an appetizer or snack!
Can I Use Regular Potatoes Instead of Baby Potatoes?
Yes, you can use larger potatoes! Just cut them into 1 to 1.5-inch pieces to make them easier to wrap with bacon and ensure even cooking.
Can I Make These in an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the bacon-wrapped potatoes in a single layer for about 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even crispiness.
How Do I Store Leftover Bacon Wrapped Potato Bites?
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 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Can I Prepare These Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can wrap the potatoes in bacon and toss them in the seasoning, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just note that the bacon may lose some crispiness if left to marinate too long, so fresh cooking is always best!