Get ready to transform your ordinary side dish into a mouthwatering sensation that'll have everyone begging for seconds! This Roasted Bacon Ranch Potato Salad isn't just another recipe—it's a flavor explosion that combines crispy roasted potatoes, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch dressing into one irresistible dish. Perfect for summer barbecues, potlucks, or when you simply want to elevate your meal game, this recipe promises to be the star of any dining table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes, halved
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the potatoes in half, ensuring they are roughly the same size for even roasting.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the halved potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Make sure each potato is evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Spread the seasoned potatoes cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. This helps create a crispy, golden-brown surface.
- Roast the potatoes in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. They should be tender on the inside and crispy on the outside.
- While potatoes are roasting, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble into small pieces once cooled.
- Remove potatoes from the oven and let them cool for 5-10 minutes. Transfer to a large serving bowl.
- Drizzle ranch dressing over the warm potatoes and gently toss to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon and sliced green onions over the dressed potatoes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve warm or at room temperature as a delicious side dish or potluck contribution.
Tips
- Choose baby potatoes for the best texture and even roasting. Make sure they're similar in size to ensure uniform cooking.
- For extra crispy potatoes, pat them completely dry before seasoning and roasting. Moisture prevents that golden-brown crunch.
- Always roast potatoes cut-side down to achieve maximum caramelization and crispy edges.
- Use thick-cut bacon for more substantial bacon bits and a richer flavor profile.
- Let the potatoes cool slightly before adding ranch dressing to prevent the dressing from breaking or becoming too runny.
- For a healthier version, you can use Greek yogurt-based ranch or swap bacon for turkey bacon.
- Serve immediately or within a few hours for the best taste and texture. The flavors meld beautifully as they sit, making this dish even more delicious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 15mg
