Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes

If you’re craving a side dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table, then these Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes are exactly what you need. Combining the natural sweetness of honey with the smoky, savory goodness of turkey bacon, this dish elevates simple baby potatoes to a whole new level. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and perfectly seasoned with garlic powder and thyme, these potatoes are the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist.

Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or a festive occasion, these roasted potatoes will quickly become a household favorite. Plus, they’re made with wholesome ingredients and come together in under 45 minutes, making them a practical and delicious choice any day of the week.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

What makes these Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes stand out? For starters, the combination of honey and turkey bacon creates a mouthwatering balance between sweet and savory that’s hard to resist. The honey caramelizes beautifully during roasting, coating the potatoes in a subtle glaze, while the turkey bacon crisps up and adds a delightful crunch and smoky depth.

Beyond flavor, this recipe requires minimal prep and only one pan, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal. It’s also incredibly versatile: serve it alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even as a hearty brunch side. For a fuss-free dinner idea, you might also want to check out this Garlic Butter Chicken And Potatoes Skillet, which complements these potatoes wonderfully.

The herbs and garlic powder add just the right amount of aromatic seasoning without overpowering the natural taste of the potatoes. And using baby potatoes ensures they cook evenly, with a tender interior and crisp exterior every time. In short, this dish hits all the right notes and is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved
• 4 slices turkey bacon, chopped
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

How To Make Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is key to getting the potatoes crispy on the outside while keeping them soft and creamy inside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

Wash the baby potatoes thoroughly and cut them in half to ensure even cooking. Chop the turkey bacon into small pieces, roughly 1/2 inch in size. This allows them to crisp up nicely and distribute evenly throughout the dish.

Step 3: Mix the Honey Glaze

In a large mixing bowl, combine the honey, olive oil, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until you have a smooth, well-blended glaze. The olive oil helps the potatoes roast beautifully, while the honey adds that perfect hint of sweetness.

Step 4: Toss Potatoes and Bacon

Add the halved baby potatoes and chopped turkey bacon to the bowl with the honey glaze. Toss everything together until each piece is coated evenly. Make sure the glaze covers all the potatoes and bacon for maximum flavor.

Step 5: Arrange on a Baking Sheet

Spread the potatoes and bacon in a single layer on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased to prevent sticking. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they roast evenly and crisp up nicely.

Step 6: Roast the Potatoes

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for about 35-40 minutes. Halfway through cooking, stir the potatoes and bacon to promote even browning. The potatoes are done when they are golden brown, crispy on the outside, and tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once roasted, remove the potatoes from the oven and transfer to a serving dish. These Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes are best enjoyed hot and fresh from the oven, making a fantastic side for any meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcrowding the pan: Packing the potatoes too tightly can cause steaming instead of roasting, resulting in soggy potatoes.
• Using thick-cut or uncut potatoes: Larger potatoes or whole baby potatoes take longer to cook and might not crisp properly.
• Not stirring halfway: Failing to toss the potatoes mid-roast can lead to uneven cooking and browning.
• Using too much honey: Excess honey can burn in the oven; stick to the recommended amount for a nice glaze without bitterness.
• Skipping seasoning: Salt and pepper are essential to bring out the flavors—don’t overlook them!

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the thyme: If you don’t have dried thyme, rosemary or oregano make excellent alternatives that pair well with potatoes and bacon.
• Add fresh herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top just before serving for a burst of color and freshness.
• Use regular bacon: For an even richer flavor, you can substitute turkey bacon with regular bacon if preferred.
• Include vegetables: Toss in some halved baby carrots or pearl onions for added texture and sweetness.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the glaze for a subtle kick.

How to Store Leftovers

Leftover Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the potatoes soggy. These potatoes can also be served cold or at room temperature, making them a great addition to salads like a Smashed Potato Salad.

FAQ

Can I use regular bacon instead of turkey bacon?

Absolutely! Regular bacon will add a richer, smokier flavor to the dish. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may render more fat and crisp faster than turkey bacon.

What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?

Baby potatoes are ideal because they roast evenly and have a creamy interior. You can use red, yellow, or white baby potatoes depending on your preference.

Is there a vegan alternative to bacon for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought vegan bacon or smoked tempeh strips. Adjust cooking times as needed to achieve desired crispiness.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can chop and toss the potatoes and bacon in the glaze a few hours ahead, keeping them refrigerated. Roast them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

These Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes are a game-changer for anyone who loves simple yet flavorful side dishes. The combination of sweet honey, savory turkey bacon, and perfectly roasted baby potatoes creates a harmony of taste and texture that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is straightforward, quick, and guaranteed to become a staple in your recipe collection. Next time you want to impress your family or guests with minimal fuss but maximum flavor, these potatoes have got you covered. Enjoy the crispy, caramelized perfection in every bite!

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