Honey bacon roasted potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—crispy, caramelized, and bursting with flavor. This dish beautifully balances sweetness from honey and smoky richness from bacon, all wrapped around golden roasted potatoes. It’s the kind of recipe that turns a humble side into the main event at any meal.
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. Whether you’re serving a Sunday roast, prepping for a holiday gathering, or looking for a satisfying addition to brunch, these potatoes fit the bill perfectly. They pair just as well with grilled meats as they do with eggs and toast.
It’s no wonder this recipe has become a favorite across food blogs and Pinterest boards. If you’re looking to expand your side dish repertoire, EatingWell’s honey-glazed recipes are a great place to explore similar inspirations. Many home cooks on Pinterest are also giving this combo their own tasty twist.
Ingredients Overview
You’ll only need a handful of ingredients to make this crowd-pleasing side dish:
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2 lbs baby or Yukon Gold potatoes (halved)
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6 strips thick-cut bacon
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2 tbsp honey
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional Additions:
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Paprika or smoked paprika for depth
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Chili flakes for heat
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Feta cheese for creaminess
For visual inspiration and variations, check out theyummyjourney.com’s honey bacon roasted potato recipe or explore reader-submitted versions on Recipes by Clare and others who log in to share tips.
Choosing the Right Potatoes
Choosing the right potato can make a big difference in texture:
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Yukon Gold: creamy interior, crispy exterior—great for roasting.
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Red-skinned: firm, slightly sweet, and hold their shape well.
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Baby potatoes: convenient and bite-sized; great for presentation.
Leaving the skins on adds texture and nutrition, but you can peel them for a smoother bite. For crispier edges, cut the potatoes evenly and dry thoroughly before cooking.
For more insight, see how InesKohl Kitchen and Cooking Fever choose the best types for roasted dishes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Let’s break down this recipe into three essential stages:
Preparation:
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Wash and halve potatoes.
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Boil in salted water for 10–12 minutes or until just fork-tender.
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Drain and allow them to steam dry—this step ensures a crispy roast.
Roasting:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Toss potatoes in a bowl with:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Spread evenly on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and crispy.
Making the Honey Bacon Glaze:
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In a skillet, fry 6 bacon strips until crisp. Set bacon aside.
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Leave 1 tbsp bacon fat in the pan. Add:
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3 minced garlic cloves
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2 tbsp honey
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Stir until fragrant and bubbling—about 1–2 minutes.
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Chop cooked bacon and stir into the honey glaze.
Finally, remove roasted potatoes from the oven, drizzle with the warm honey-bacon mixture, and toss to coat. Garnish with parsley or a sprinkle of cheese.
For more detailed photos and variations, check out Simply Recipes, Eatwell101, and Supergolden Bakes.
Tips for Perfect Roasted Potatoes
Want that perfect crunch and golden finish? Follow these expert tips:
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Steam dry your potatoes before roasting for max crispiness.
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Single layer is key—don’t crowd your baking sheet.
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Tweak the honey based on how sweet you want it—start light, taste, and adjust.
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Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to the roasting pan for an aromatic boost.
These small adjustments can elevate your dish from good to unforgettable. As seen in Eatwell101 and mandyinthemaking.com, the right technique makes all the difference.
Recipe Variations
Want to add your own twist to these honey bacon roasted potatoes? Try one of these creative variations:
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Spicy Kick
Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the honey bacon mixture for a gentle heat that contrasts the sweetness. -
Cheesy Delight
Before serving, sprinkle crumbled feta or shredded cheddar to add a creamy and tangy element. -
Herb Infusion
Toss in fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even sage during the roasting process for an aromatic layer of flavor. -
Vegan Option
Use plant-based bacon and substitute maple syrup for honey to create a fully vegan dish that retains its signature sweet-savory appeal.
You can find more variation ideas from culinary sites like Supergolden Bakes, Recipes by Clare, and InesKohl Kitchen, who each bring their own unique flavor pairings to this classic side.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile roasted potatoes are a fantastic side for a variety of dishes. Try them with:
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Grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pork chops
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A hearty brunch plate with eggs, toast, and fresh greens
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Holiday dinners, Thanksgiving spreads, or potluck tables
Their bold sweet and savory glaze pairs well with both traditional and modern mains. For visual inspiration on pairings and plating, check out creative examples from Eatwell101.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
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Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
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For best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through.
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Alternatively, use a skillet over medium heat to crisp them up again.
Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that signature crispiness. These tips are often recommended by home cooks on Eatwell101 for preserving roasted potato texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No—keeping the skin adds texture and nutrients. Peeling is optional depending on your preference.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
Yes! Yukon Gold, red-skinned, or baby potatoes all work well and each brings a slightly different texture.
Is it necessary to boil the potatoes before roasting?
Yes—boiling helps soften the center, reducing roast time and ensuring a fluffy interior.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook the potatoes and glaze them just before serving. Reheat in the oven for the best flavor and texture.
How can I make the dish spicier?
Stir in chili flakes, cayenne, or even a dash of hot sauce to the glaze. For more tips, the food discussions on Reddit and guides from Supergolden Bakes and Simply Recipes are packed with reader-tested ideas.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving (based on 6 servings):
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Calories: ~270 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 28g
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Protein: 6g
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Fat: 14g
These numbers may vary based on the type and amount of bacon, oil, and potatoes used. While indulgent, these potatoes are still a relatively balanced side when served with lean proteins or vegetables. Supergolden Bakes offers healthy adjustments for calorie-conscious cooks.
Conclusion
Honey bacon roasted potatoes bring everything we crave in comfort food—crunchy edges, warm centers, and irresistible sweet-savory glaze. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is simple to make and deeply satisfying.
Don’t be afraid to personalize it—try new cheeses, add herbs, or crank up the spice. Every variation brings something new to the table. Be sure to share your favorite twists in the comments or on social platforms.
For more classic comfort ideas, check out Simply Recipes or the creative spins on epicurious.com and bonappetit.com.
Honey Bacon Roasted Potatoes Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling)
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Slotted spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- 2 lbs baby potatoes halved, skin on or off
- 6 strips thick-cut bacon
- 2 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley optional garnish
Optional Additions:
- Chili flakes or cayenne for spice
- Paprika or smoked paprika
- Feta or cheddar cheese
- Fresh rosemary or thyme
Instructions
Boil the Potatoes
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add halved potatoes and cook for 10–12 minutes until just tender. Drain and allow to steam dry for 5 minutes.
Preheat and Prepare for Roasting
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Roast the Potatoes
- Spread potatoes evenly on a baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy.
Make the Honey Bacon Glaze
- While potatoes roast, cook bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove and chop. Reserve 1 tbsp bacon fat in the pan. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute, then stir in honey and chopped bacon.
Combine and Serve
- Remove potatoes from the oven, toss with honey bacon glaze, and garnish with parsley or cheese if desired.
Notes
- Potatoes: Yukon Gold or red-skinned potatoes also work well.
- Don’t skip boiling: It ensures fluffy interiors and crispy exteriors.
- Make it ahead: Prepare and refrigerate; reheat before serving.
- Vegan-friendly version: Use plant-based bacon and swap honey for maple syrup.
- Add heat: A pinch of chili flakes or hot sauce balances the sweetness beautifully.