Loaded Bacon Ranch Smashed Potatoes Recipe Perfect for Parties

Name: Loaded Bacon Ranch Smashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds baby potatoes (red, gold, or a mix); 6-8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend); 1/4 cup ranch dressing; 3 tablespoons butter, melted; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 2-3 stalks chopped green onions; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Posted on November 10, 2025

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Golden potatoes smashed to perfection, crispy and buttery on the outside, fluffy on the inside, topped with gooey melted cheese, crispy bacon, and a drizzle of creamy ranch—sounds like a dream, right? Well, let me tell you, this recipe is a total game-changer. Whether you’re hosting a party, planning a weekend dinner, or just craving some serious comfort food, these Loaded Bacon Ranch Smashed Potatoes are always a hit. Every bite is packed with bold flavors and textures that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Trust me, these potatoes are the ultimate crowd-pleaser.

Honestly, I first fell in love with smashed potatoes after trying them at a friend’s barbecue. They were good, but I knew I could make them even better. So, after some experimenting in my kitchen, I came up with this loaded version that combines all the best things—bacon, cheese, ranch, and buttery potatoes. The result? Pure joy on a plate. Let me show you how to make your new favorite side dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: These smashed potatoes come together in under an hour, making them perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings.
Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses everyday kitchen staples—no fancy grocery trips needed!
Party-Ready: These are the ultimate appetizer or side dish for potlucks, game days, or family dinners.
Versatile: You can customize the toppings to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it easy to cater to everyone at the table.
Unbelievably Delicious: The crispy, buttery potatoes topped with cheesy, bacon-y goodness and ranch drizzle create a flavor explosion you won’t forget.

What sets this recipe apart is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The smashed potatoes are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and topped with savory, creamy goodness that’s hard to resist. Plus, the ranch drizzle ties everything together beautifully, adding a tangy, herby kick to every bite. Trust me, this isn’t your average potato recipe—it’s the kind of dish that makes people say, “You HAVE to give me the recipe!”

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, flavorful ingredients that come together for an unforgettable dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

Baby potatoes: 2 pounds (red, gold, or a mix—they’re perfect for smashing).
Bacon: 6-8 slices, cooked until crispy and crumbled.
Shredded cheese: 1 cup (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your choice).
Ranch dressing: 1/4 cup, for drizzling (use your favorite brand or homemade).
Butter: 3 tablespoons, melted (for brushing on the potatoes).
Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (helps achieve that crispy texture).
Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon (adds a savory depth).
Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust to taste).
Chopped green onions: 2-3 stalks (for garnish).
Fresh parsley: Optional, for a pop of color and flavor.

If you’re missing something, don’t worry! You can swap red potatoes for Yukon Golds, or use turkey bacon for a lighter option. This recipe is super forgiving and easy to customize.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make these Loaded Bacon Ranch Smashed Potatoes:

Large pot: For boiling the potatoes.
Sheet pan: To roast the smashed potatoes.
Potato masher or flat-bottomed glass: For smashing the potatoes.
Silicone brush: To spread the butter and olive oil mixture evenly.
Tongs: For handling the bacon and flipping potatoes if needed.

If you don’t have a potato masher, a sturdy fork or even a measuring cup can work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s something flat enough to press down the potatoes evenly!

Detailed Preparation Method

Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
Boil the potatoes: In a large pot, add the baby potatoes and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Prepare the butter mixture: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, olive oil, garlic powder, and salt. Set aside.
Smash the potatoes: Place the boiled potatoes on the prepared sheet pan. Use a potato masher or flat-bottomed glass to gently press each potato down, flattening it to about 1/2 inch thick. Don’t worry if some edges crack—it’s part of the charm!
Brush and bake: Brush each smashed potato generously with the butter mixture. Bake in the oven for 20 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy.
Top with cheese and bacon: Remove the potatoes from the oven and sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the tops. Add the crumbled bacon and return to the oven for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Drizzle with ranch: Once out of the oven, drizzle the potatoes with ranch dressing. Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley, if desired.

Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and the potatoes are hot. Trust me, they won’t last long!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t over-boil: Make sure your potatoes are fork-tender but not falling apart—this helps them hold their shape when smashed.
Smash evenly: Press down gently and evenly to avoid breaking the potatoes too much. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch.
Get crispy edges: For extra crispiness, drizzle a tiny bit more olive oil around the edges before baking.
Multitask: Cook your bacon while the potatoes are boiling to save time.
Customize the flavor: Add spices like paprika or cayenne to the butter mixture for a little kick.

These tips will help you nail the perfect texture and flavor every time!

Variations & Adaptations

Vegetarian version: Skip the bacon and load up on sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions instead.
Low-carb option: Use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lighter twist.
Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili flakes to the cheese topping.
Dairy-free adaptation: Use plant-based butter, dairy-free cheese, and vegan ranch dressing.
Seasonal flair: Swap parsley for fresh basil or chives during the summer months.

I’ve tried the vegetarian version with caramelized onions, and it’s just as delicious. Give it a try!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These potatoes are best served warm, straight out of the oven, with the cheese still gooey and the bacon crispy. Pair them with grilled chicken, steak, or even a crisp green salad for a balanced meal. For parties, serve them on a platter garnished with extra green onions and parsley for a pop of color.

If you have leftovers (unlikely!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving—they’ll lose their crispiness!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

While these Loaded Bacon Ranch Smashed Potatoes are indulgent, they’re also packed with hearty ingredients. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

Calories: 250
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 15g

Baby potatoes are a great source of potassium and fiber, while cheese and bacon provide protein and flavor. Plus, using olive oil adds a heart-healthy touch. Just be mindful of portion sizes if you’re watching your calorie intake!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s guaranteed to wow, these Loaded Bacon Ranch Smashed Potatoes are the answer. They’re crispy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor—everything you want in a comfort-food dish. Plus, they’re easy to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a big celebration.

I love this recipe because it’s customizable and always makes people smile. Try it out, tweak it to suit your tastes, and let me know how it turns out. Leave a comment below or share your version on social media—I can’t wait to see your creations!

Get smashing, and happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make these smashed potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! You can boil and smash the potatoes ahead of time, then refrigerate them until ready to bake. Add the butter mixture and toppings just before baking.

What’s the best way to cook bacon for this recipe?

I recommend baking the bacon in the oven for even cooking and easy cleanup. Place slices on a foil-lined sheet pan and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes.

Can I use ranch seasoning instead of dressing?

Absolutely! Sprinkle ranch seasoning over the potatoes before baking for a concentrated flavor punch.

Can I freeze these smashed potatoes?

While they’re best fresh, you can freeze the smashed potatoes (before adding toppings) in an airtight container. Bake straight from frozen for about 25 minutes.

What other toppings can I add?

Get creative! Try sour cream, diced tomatoes, chopped jalapeños, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.