Pioneer Woman’s Loaded Smashed Potatoes are a comforting and indulgent side dish that’s perfect for any meal. These potatoes are cooked until tender, smashed to create a crispy texture, and then loaded with cheese, bacon, and other delicious toppings. The combination of flavors and textures makes these loaded smashed potatoes an irresistible addition to your table. Whether you’re serving them alongside a main course or enjoying them as a snack, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone.

What are Pioneer Woman Loaded Smashed Potatoes?

Pioneer Woman’s Loaded Smashed Potatoes are small, tender potatoes that are boiled until soft, smashed flat, and then baked until crispy. They’re topped with melted cheese, crispy bacon, sour cream, and chives, creating a loaded potato experience in every bite. This dish is easy to make and perfect for serving at family dinners, parties, or as a game-day snack.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

These loaded smashed potatoes combine the crispy edges of roasted potatoes with the gooey goodness of loaded toppings. They’re easy to prepare, incredibly versatile, and packed with flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a great way to enjoy potatoes in a new and delicious way.

Ingredients Needed to Make Pioneer Woman Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

2 pounds of small potatoes (such as baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes)

3 tablespoons of olive oil
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of cooked turkey bacon, crumbled

1/2 cup of sour cream
1/4 cup of chopped chives or green onions

Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need:

Large Pot: For boiling the potatoes.
Baking Sheet: For roasting the smashed potatoes.
Mixing Bowl: For tossing the potatoes with seasonings.

Potato Masher or Fork: For smashing the potatoes.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurately measuring the ingredients.

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Boil the Potatoes: Start by placing the potatoes in a large pot and covering them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they’re tender about 15-20 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.

Preheat the Oven: While the potatoes are boiling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Drain and Cool: Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and let them cool slightly until they’re easy to handle.
Smash the Potatoes: Arrange the boiled potatoes on a baking sheet. Use a potato masher or the bottom of a glass to gently smash each potato until it’s about 1/2 inch thick. Be careful not to smash them too thinly, as you want them to hold together.

Season and Roast: Drizzle the smashed potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
Add Toppings: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and sprinkle the potatoes with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Return to the oven for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve: Once the cheese is melted, remove the potatoes from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Top with dollops of sour cream and sprinkle with chopped chives or green onions. Serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Loaded Smashed Potatoes

These loaded smashed potatoes are a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. Here are some ideas:

Grilled Steak: The rich, meaty flavor of grilled steak complements the cheesy, crispy potatoes perfectly.
Roast Chicken: Serve alongside roast chicken for a classic and comforting meal.

Barbecue Ribs: The tangy barbecue sauce and tender ribs pair wonderfully with the savory potatoes.
Salads: Balance the richness of the potatoes with a fresh, green salad.
Burgers: These potatoes make a great side for burgers, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Loaded Smashed Potatoes

To make sure your loaded smashed potatoes turn out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

Choose the Right Potatoes: Use small, waxy potatoes like baby Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape well after boiling and smashing.
Don’t Over-Smash: Gently smash the potatoes to about 1/2 inch thick. Over-smashing can cause them to fall apart.

Get the Potatoes Crispy: Make sure to roast the potatoes long enough to get the edges crispy before adding the cheese and bacon.
Use Fresh Toppings: Freshly grated cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh chives or green onions make a big difference in flavor.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Loaded Smashed Potatoes

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by trying different variations:

Loaded Sweet Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Loaded Potatoes: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the potatoes before roasting for a spicy kick.
Herb-Infused Potatoes: Toss the potatoes with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme before roasting for a herby twist.

Vegan Loaded Potatoes: Use dairy-free cheese and skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative for a vegan version.
Cheesy Garlic Potatoes: Add minced garlic to the olive oil before drizzling over the potatoes for a garlicky flavor boost.

Storing Pioneer Woman Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Best Practices

If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them:

Refrigerate Properly: Store leftover smashed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat Before Serving: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crispy again, about 10-15 minutes.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Loaded Smashed Potatoes: Best Practices

When reheating your leftover potatoes, keep these tips in mind:

Oven Method: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, until the potatoes are hot and crispy.
Microwave Method: While the oven is best for retaining crispiness, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until warmed through, though they may lose some texture.

FAQs

Can I use larger potatoes for loaded smashed potatoes?

Yes, you can use larger potatoes, but they may need to be cut in half or quarters before boiling to ensure even cooking. Smaller potatoes are ideal because they hold their shape better and create more surface area for crispiness.

How do I make sure the smashed potatoes get crispy?

To make sure the smashed potatoes get crispy, use a generous amount of olive oil and roast them at a high temperature (425°F). Make sure the potatoes are spaced out on the baking sheet to allow the edges to crisp up. Roasting them long enough before adding the toppings will also enhance their crispiness.

Can I prepare loaded smashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the potatoes by boiling and smashing them ahead of time. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. When you’re ready to serve, simply season, roast, and add the toppings just before serving.

What are some good alternatives to bacon in loaded smashed potatoes?

Good alternatives to bacon include crispy pancetta, turkey bacon, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas. These can add texture and flavor without using traditional bacon.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman’s Loaded Smashed Potatoes are a delightful combination of crispy, cheesy, and savory flavors, making them a perfect side dish for any occasion. Easy to prepare and versatile, these potatoes are sure to be a hit at your table. Enjoy the rich taste and texture of these loaded smashed potatoes, and be sure to share them with friends and family at your next gathering!

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