As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of sizzling bacon wafted through the air, instantly transporting me to my favorite game nights filled with laughter and good food. Today, I’m excited to share my recipe for Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges, a dish that has become synonymous with cozy gatherings and indulgent evenings. These crispy wedges, with their gooey melted cheese and crispy bacon, are not only incredibly satisfying but also customizable for those looking for gluten-free or vegetarian variations. Plus, they’re simple enough to whip up in no time, making them a perfect choice for busy cooks. Whether you’re hosting friends or indulging in a movie marathon at home, these cheddar bacon potato wedges are sure to be a hit. What will you pair them with—your favorite dip or perhaps a special side?
Why Are Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges Perfect?
Crispy Texture: The golden, crunchy exterior makes each bite a delightful experience, ensuring you crave for more!
Versatile Options: Not only can you enjoy them as-is, but you can also customize with different toppings or even transform them into a vegetarian delight.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for game nights or family gatherings, these wedges will impress guests and leave them wanting seconds.
Quick Cooking: With a straightforward prep and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy these delicious treats without spending hours in the kitchen.
Great Pairings: Serve them alongside a classic burger or share them at your next potluck—everyone will adore this hearty snack! For more fun side options, don’t forget to check out these Bacon Egg Cheese and Broth Based Potato recipes!
Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedge Ingredients
For the Wedges
• Large Baking Potatoes – Essential for structure; you can swap them with sweet potatoes for a hint of sweetness.
• Vegetable Oil – A must for frying, as it ensures a crispy texture; feel free to use canola or peanut oil instead.
• Kosher Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; sea salt works well as a substitute.
• Coarse Ground Black Pepper – Adds a touch of mild heat; adjust according to your taste preferences.
For the Toppings
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – This is the star ingredient that brings creaminess and rich flavor; Monterey Jack or mozzarella are great alternatives.
• Bacon (cooked and crumbled) – This adds that beloved smokiness and crunch; consider turkey or plant-based bacon for a lighter twist.
These Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges are ripe for customization and are sure to become a go-to favorite in your home cooking repertoire!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, wash and scrub 4 large baking potatoes. Cut each potato into wedges, about 1 inch thick. For an even cook, try to make the wedges similar in size. Spread the wedges out on a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring they turn crispy when cooked.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large, heavy-duty pot or deep fryer, pour in vegetable oil until it is about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C), measuring with a cooking thermometer. To test the temperature, drop in a small piece of potato; if it sizzles and bubbles, the oil is ready for frying. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly crispy Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges.
Step 3: Fry the Wedges
Carefully place the potato wedges in the bubbling oil in batches, ensuring they have space to float freely. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes, turning halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp on the outside. Use a slotted spoon to remove the wedges and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil while you fry the remaining batches.
Step 4: Season the Wedges
Once all the potato wedges are fried and drained, arrange them in a single layer on a large baking sheet. Generously sprinkle kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper over the crispy wedges to enhance their flavor. This step adds a delicious seasoning base, readying them for the decadent toppings that will soon follow.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Bacon
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the seasoned potato wedges, making sure each piece is covered. Next, evenly distribute half of the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese. This delicious layer will melt into the wedges, infusing every bite with cheesy, smoky goodness.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, taking care to watch for golden edges. After 15 minutes, open the oven and add the remaining crumbled bacon, then return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These hot, crispy wedges are perfect on their own or paired with your favorite dips like sour cream or ranch dressing. Enjoy the comforting flavors and watch them disappear as guests savor each delicious bite!
Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges Variations
Customize your Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges for flavors that delight, transforming each bite into a brand-new experience!
- Gluten-Free: Swap traditional flour for gluten-free bread crumbs as a crispy topping to keep it safe for all diets.
- Vegetarian: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms and spinach for a savory, earthy twist that’s just as satisfying.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne for a zesty heat that will awaken your taste buds!
These variations are a great way to explore different flavor profiles. For a creamy, comforting side dish, consider trying these Creamed Peas and New Potatoes next!
- Cheese Swap: Use crumbled feta or goat cheese for a gourmet twist that elevates the dish with tangy goodness.
- Herbed Delight: Garnish with fresh rosemary or thyme after baking for an aromatic lift that pairs beautifully with the cheese.
Experimenting with different ingredients can create new favorites. Feeling adventurous? Treat your guests to these Spanish Chorizo Potato Wedges next!
Oven-Baked: Skip the frying and roast the wedges drizzled with olive oil for a healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor.
Bacon Jam: Spread a layer of bacon jam before adding cheese for that extra punch of flavor that bacon lovers will adore!
What to Serve with Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges
Transform your Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges into a complete meal with these delightful pairings that enhance flavors and textures.
Creamy Ranch Dip: The cool, creamy ranch dressing perfectly balances the crispy heat of the potato wedges, creating a mouthwatering contrast.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the wedges.
Grilled Burgers: Juicy beef or veggie burgers serve as a hearty main course that pairs beautifully with your crispy potato wedges, making for a satisfying meal.
Zesty Coleslaw: The crunch and tang of coleslaw bring a brightness and texture that elevates the flavor experience of your cheesy, savory wedges.
Spicy Buffalo Chicken Wings: For those who crave a flavor explosion, the spicy heat of buffalo wings amps up the fun, perfect for game nights!
Sweet Potato Fries: A different take on classic fries, sweet potato fries offer a hint of sweetness that balances the savory, cheesy wedges remarkably well.
Chilled Beer or Cider: Pair with a cool glass of beer or refreshing cider to cut through the richness of the melted cheese and bacon, enhancing the whole experience.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Finish off your meal with warm, gooey cookies for a sweet companion that brings nostalgia and comforts, tying everything together.
Expert Tips for Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges
Perfect Frying Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain the oil at 350°F during frying. This ensures your wedges turn out crispy without being greasy.
Avoid Sogginess: Drain the fried wedges on paper towels to absorb excess oil. This step prevents sogginess, keeping your Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges crunchy and delicious.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances the flavor, so sprinkle generously before baking to make sure each wedge is tasty.
Customize with Toppings: Feel free to experiment! Add fresh herbs or switch up cheeses to suit your taste. This makes each batch of Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges uniquely yours.
Reheat Wisely: If you have leftovers, reheat them in an oven instead of a microwave for that beloved crunch. Enjoy them later just as crispy as when they were first made!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges are perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep! You can prep the potato wedges up to 24 hours in advance by washing, cutting, and soaking them in cold water to prevent browning. Drain and pat them dry before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also fry the wedges and store them for up to 3 days in the fridge. To maintain their crispy texture, reheat them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. When ready to enjoy, simply layer with cheese and bacon, bake until the cheese is bubbly, and you’ll have delicious, ready-to-serve Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges
Room Temperature: Store leftover wedges in a cool, dry place for up to 2 hours after cooking to maintain freshness.
Fridge: Keep cooled Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges in an airtight container for up to 3 days; this helps preserve flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, reheat your wedges in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes for that crispy texture you love.
Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges Recipe FAQs
What kind of potatoes should I use for the Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges?
For the best results, use large baking potatoes like Russets, as they provide the ideal structure and crispy texture. If you’re looking for a unique twist, sweet potatoes can be an excellent substitute, adding a hint of sweetness to each bite.
How can I store leftover Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges?
Absolutely! Let the wedges cool to room temperature and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture. If you need to keep them longer, they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Just ensure to place them in a single layer on a baking sheet first to freeze, and then transfer to a freezer-safe container.
Can I freeze the Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges? How do I do it properly?
Yes, you can freeze them! First, fry and prepare the wedges as directed but allow them to cool completely. Lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and flash freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if desired. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if my potato wedges aren’t getting crispy?
Very! If your wedges aren’t crispy enough, ensure that you’re frying at the correct oil temperature, around 350°F (175°C). Overcrowding the pot can also lead to sogginess—fry in smaller batches to maintain the heat. Additionally, make sure to fully drain them on paper towels after frying to remove excess oil. Finally, don’t skip the seasoning step before baking; this can also enhance their crispiness!
Are these Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges suitable for gluten-free diets?
Certainly! The base recipe is naturally gluten-free if you ensure that your bacon and seasonings are gluten-free. Always check product labels to be safe! For a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and consider using a sprinkling of smoked paprika for that beloved flavor profile without the meat.
Can I use other types of cheese for these wedges?
Absolutely! While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack for a meltier texture, or even smoked gouda for a unique flavor twist. The more, the merrier with cheese, so mix and match according to your taste!
Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges: Crispy Comfort Food Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash and scrub the large baking potatoes, then cut each into wedges about 1 inch thick. Spread them out on a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- In a large pot or deep fryer, pour vegetable oil until about 2 inches deep. Heat the oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F, testing with a small piece of potato.
- Carefully place the potato wedges in batches into the hot oil, frying for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Arrange the fried wedges on a baking sheet. Sprinkle generously with kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the wedges, then add half of the crumbled bacon on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Add the remaining crumbled bacon and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving with your favorite dips.
