Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes – The Ultimate Side Dish the Whole Family Will Love

Mom-tested recipe secrets for the ultimate easy ranch potatoes – crispy, cheesy, and so easy to make. Family favorite guaranteed!

When it comes to easy side dishes the whole family will love, these Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes are the best part of the meal! The perfect blend of crispy potatoes, tangy ranch seasoning, garlic powder, melty cheddar cheese, and bacon bits makes this simple recipe a guaranteed winner. 

Whether you’re using store-bought ranch dressing mix or homemade ranch seasoning mix, these potatoes are easy to customize! 

Choose your favorite potato, try a different cheese, or add a kick of spice – the options are endless for this perfect side dish!

Potato Varieties

While I often use Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture, this recipe is also delicious, with russets for a fluffier potato or baby potatoes for extra crispy bites. Whatever kind you choose, the key is cutting them into roughly 1-inch cubes for even cooking.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese? 

• Absolutely! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack pepper jack (for spice lovers), or even a melty crumbled cheese like queso fresco would be delicious in these cheesy ranch potatoes.

I don’t have ranch dressing mix. What can I use instead? 

• If you’re short on the packet, you can whip up your own simple ranch seasoning substitute with a blend of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and a touch of buttermilk powder (optional, but adds authentic tanginess).

Can I make these cheesy bacon ranch potatoes ahead of time? 

• Yes! Prep the potatoes (through the seasoning step) in advance and refrigerate. Then, roast and top with cheese and bacon just before serving for the best crispy texture.

How do I get the crispiest potatoes? 

• There are a few tricks: Make sure to spread them in a single layer on the baking sheet, patting the cubed potatoes dry with paper towels before seasoning helps, and you can even toss them with a tiny bit of cornstarch with the oil and spices! For the ultimate crispiness, try the air fryer method!

Variations for our easy recipe:

• Air Fryer Version: Follow the same seasoning process, then air fry your potatoes for ultimate crispiness according to your air fryer’s instructions. Finish with the cheese and bacon as directed.
• Substitute canola oil for the olive oil if you prefer. 
• Chopped chives, a sprinkle of chili powder, and other favorite toppings make these potatoes endlessly customizable!

Serving Suggestions

These potatoes are fantastic alongside all kinds of dishes! Here are a few ideas:

• Grilled Favorites: Chicken, steak, fish, burgers
• Comfort Classics: Meatloaf, pot roast, roasted vegetables
• Make It a Meal: Add cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or crumbled ground beef for a complete meal!

Equipment:

• Large bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper sheets or aluminum foil (optional, but makes cleanup easier)
• Airtight container (for storing leftovers)

Ingredients for Ranch Potatoes:

• 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, washed and cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (this is what makes the spices stick to the potato skin)
• 1 packet (1 ounce) dry ranch dressing mix
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
• Chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Wash potatoes and cut them into 1-inch cubes.

2. In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, olive oil, ranch dressing mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly. This can also be done in a ziplock bag. 

3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and tender.

4. Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle with cheddar cheese and bacon bits.  Return to the oven for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

5. Sprinkle with green onions and a dollop of sour cream, and serve these cheesy potatoes hot alongside your favorite main course!

Tips for Success

• Yukon Golds are great for their creamy texture, but russet or baby potatoes work too.
• Easily double the recipe for larger gatherings. Just use a bigger baking dish!
• Store leftover potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave. We love using anything that is left over in an omelet the next morning.

The Pioneer Woman Knows Best: Ree Drummond has a similar recipe on her website that also includes some butter – feel free to add a couple of tablespoons to your potatoes with the seasoning for an even richer flavor!

Let me know how you and your family love these potatoes in the comments! Do you have any favorite variations?

Other side dishes that you will love: Twice Baked Potatoes, 7 Layer Greek Dip, and Apricot Pecan Yams.

​