Name: Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges: Crispy Comfort for Any Occasion
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 Large Baking Potatoes (Essential for structure and crispiness; sweet potatoes can add a touch of sweetness.); 2-3 inches Vegetable Oil (Crucial for frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture; can substitute with canola or peanut oil.); 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt (Enhances flavor significantly; sea salt serves as an excellent alternative.); 1 teaspoon Coarse Ground Black Pepper (Adds a mild heat; adjust according to your taste preference.); 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Provides creaminess and rich flavor; consider using Monterey Jack or mozzarella for variety.); 6 slices Bacon (cooked and crumbled) (Adds a delicious smokiness and crunch; try turkey or plant-based bacon for lighter options.)

As I pulled the crispy potato wedges from the oven, the warm, smoky scent of bacon danced through my kitchen, instantly lifting my spirits. These Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges have become my go-to comfort food—quick to prepare yet a surefire hit for any gathering. Not only are they crowd-pleasers that can easily be customized to fit gluten-free or vegetarian diets, but they also offer a perfect balance of crunch and gooey cheese that leaves everyone wanting more. Whether it’s game night or a cozy family dinner, these delectable wedges promise to bring smiles and satisfaction. What toppings would you choose to elevate your version?

Why are Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges a must-try?

Comforting, Delicious Flavor: The irresistible mix of crispy bacon and gooey cheddar makes every bite a savory delight that’s hard to resist.

Customizable Options: Perfect for everyone! Simply swap out the bacon for plant-based alternatives or choose a different cheese like Monterey Jack for a twist.

Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, these wedges are a fantastic choice for busy evenings or last-minute gatherings.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Serve these crispy bites at your next game night or potluck, and watch them disappear in no time!

Perfectly Textured: Enjoy the golden, crunchy exterior and soft, fluffy interior that turns ordinary potatoes into a sensational side.

Pair them with a side of ranch dressing or a fresh garden salad for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.

Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges Ingredients

• Below is a delightful mix of all you need to create these crispy, savory Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges.

For the Wedges

Large Baking Potatoes – Essential for structure and crispiness; sweet potatoes can add a touch of sweetness.
Vegetable Oil – Crucial for frying to achieve that perfect crispy texture; can substitute with canola or peanut oil.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor significantly; sea salt serves as an excellent alternative.
Coarse Ground Black Pepper – Adds a mild heat; adjust according to your taste preference.

For the Toppings

Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Provides creaminess and rich flavor; consider using Monterey Jack or mozzarella for variety.
Bacon (cooked and crumbled) – Adds a delicious smokiness and crunch; try turkey or plant-based bacon for lighter options.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for the final baking. While the oven heats, wash and scrub the large baking potatoes thoroughly. Slice them into 1-inch thick wedges, ensuring uniform size for even cooking. Pat the potato wedges dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture, setting the stage for crispy Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges.

Step 2: Heat Oil
In a deep fryer or heavy pot, pour in enough vegetable oil for frying, about 2-3 inches deep. Heat the oil to 350°F (175°C), checking the temperature carefully with a thermometer. This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crunch. Once heated, you’re ready to fry those wedges to crispy perfection.

Step 3: Fry Wedges
Carefully add the potato wedges to the hot oil in batches to avoid overcrowding. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes until they turn a beautiful golden brown and become crispy. Use a slotted spoon to gently remove the fried wedges, allowing excess oil to drip off. Place them on paper towels to absorb any remaining oil and keep them nice and crispy.

Step 4: Season Wedges
Take the fried potato wedges and spread them out evenly on a baking sheet. Generously season them with kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper, tossing them lightly to ensure even coverage. This step enhances the flavor of your Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges and prepares them for their delicious toppings.

Step 5: Add Toppings
Start layering on the toppings by adding a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the seasoned wedges. Next, sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon on top, ensuring that every wedge is adorned with that smoky flavor. The cheese will melt beautifully, creating an irresistible gooey layer.

Step 6: Bake
Place the prepared baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melting and bubbly. After 15 minutes, add the remaining bacon on top to keep it crispy and flavorful. Return the baking sheet to the oven for an additional 5 minutes to let the cheese continue to melt and combine with the bacon.

Step 7: Serve
Once baked, remove the Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges from the oven and allow them to cool slightly on the baking sheet. This brief cooling time helps to firm them up a bit before serving. Pair with your favorite dips like sour cream or ranch dressing, and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures.

What to Serve with Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges

Indulge in the ultimate cozy meal by pairing irresistible flavors and satisfying textures with these delectable wedges.

Creamy Ranch Dressing: A classic dipping sauce that adds a cool contrast to the hot, crispy wedges, enhancing every savory bite.
Fresh Garden Salad: Crisp greens tossed in a light vinaigrette bring balance and freshness, making for a delightful complement to the richness of the wedges.
Spicy Jalapeño Poppers: For a kick, serve these cheesy, spicy bites alongside your Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges to satisfy your craving for bold flavors.
Garlic Bread: The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread adds a comforting carb element, perfect for soaking up any leftover cheese from your plate.
Honey Mustard Chicken Skewers: Juicy, tangy chicken skewers add protein and flavor depth, turning your snack into a full meal that guests will adore.
Creamy Coleslaw: This slaw’s crunch and tanginess balance the richness of the potato wedges, giving you a refreshing bite between flavors.
Crispy Beer-Battered Fish: The flaky fish adds a delightful crunch and pairs beautifully with the cheesy comfort of your Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges, creating a true feast.
Ice-Cold Lemonade: Keep things refreshing with a glass of lemonade; its tartness beautifully contrasts the savory flavors, quenching your thirst perfectly.

Consider these pairings to elevate your Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges, ensuring every bite is a celebration of flavor and comfort!

Expert Tips for Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges

Oil Temperature Accuracy: Always maintain the oil temperature at 350°F for the crispiest Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges. Use a thermometer to avoid sogginess!
Proper Drying: After frying, let the wedges drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. This prevents them from becoming greasy.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper! Seasoning right after frying enhances flavor significantly before they go in the oven.
Cheese Selection: Experiment with different cheeses like smoked gouda for a unique twist that elevates your dish.
Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. For the best reheating results, use the oven to maintain their crispiness.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges are perfect for meal prep, letting you enjoy delicious comfort food without the last-minute rush! You can slice the potatoes and soak them in water up to 24 hours in advance to prevent browning. Another option is to fry the wedges, season them, and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat the seasoned wedges in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until they’re crispy, add toppings, and bake for about 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights!

Storage Tips for Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges

Fridge: Store leftover wedges in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days to keep them fresh and flavorful.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will stay good for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To reheat, place the wedges in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes until crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Wrapping: If planning to store for short periods, wrap wedges in parchment paper before placing them in a container to help absorb moisture, preserving their delicious crunch.

Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges Variations

Explore the limitless possibilities of these delectable Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges, allowing your culinary creativity to shine!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip breading altogether. Enjoy the same crunchy texture without worry.
Vegetarian Delight: Omit bacon altogether and consider adding a medley of sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, savory twist.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or drizzle your favorite hot sauce over the cheese for a delightful heat that enhances the flavor.
Cheese Swap: Try a blend of gouda and pepper jack for a creamy, tangy flavor that adds a new dimension to your wedges.
Smoky Flavor: Infuse additional smokiness by using smoked bacon or smoked paprika if you prefer a vegetarian option.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before baking to boost the aroma and add a lovely earthiness to every bite.
Loaded Wedges: Go all out by adding toppings like jalapeños, sour cream, or even guacamole for a fun and flavorful twist.
Bacon Jam Bonanza: Spread a layer of bacon jam onto the wedges before adding cheese for an unforgettable explosion of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds.

These variations are sure to impress family and friends, just like when you whip up a classic Cheesy Garlic Potato or a hearty Ground Beef Potato Taco Bowl. Let your imagination run wild and enjoy the journey of creating your own unique Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges!

Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right potatoes for my wedges?
Absolutely! For the best Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges, look for large baking potatoes, like Russets. They have a high starch content, which gives you that fluffy interior. If you’re looking for something slightly sweeter, sweet potatoes can work beautifully as a substitute!

How should I store leftover Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges?
To keep your leftovers in tip-top shape, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture. If you’re holding onto them for longer, freezing is a great option; just remember they can last up to 2 months in the freezer!

Can I freeze Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges?
Yes, you can! To freeze the wedges, first let them cool completely after cooking. Then, spread them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer for a few hours until frozen solid. Once firm, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes.

What if my wedges turn out soggy?
No worries! If your Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges are soggy, it’s often due to either overcrowding them during frying or not getting enough oil temperature. Ensure you fry in batches and keep the oil at 350°F (175°C). If you encounter sogginess after frying, you can always reheat them on a wire rack in the oven to crisp them back up!

Are there any dietary considerations for Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges?
Very! If you need a gluten-free option, rejoice! These wedges are naturally gluten-free as long as you check the labels on your toppings and bacon. If someone has a dairy allergy, simply omit the cheese or replace it with a dairy-free alternative. Plant-based bacon is also an excellent choice for a vegetarian or lighter version.

How do I add extra flavors to my Cheddar Bacon Potato Wedges?
The more the merrier! You can swap cheddar cheese for smoked gouda for a delicious twist or add fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a touch of brightness. Think about drizzling some garlic-infused olive oil before baking for an added layer of flavor, or even topping them with crispy onions before serving for an exciting crunch!