Loaded Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish. This recipe features tender potatoes smothered in gooey cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, savory ground beef, and a generous drizzle of creamy ranch dressing. Baked to perfection, every bite offers a rich, flavorful combination that will satisfy even the heartiest appetites.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a perfect blend of rich, indulgent flavors and textures. Whether you are hosting a gathering, planning a cozy family dinner, or just treating yourself, these loaded potatoes will be a hit. The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and the creamy ranch drizzle is both hearty and satisfying. Plus, it is incredibly easy to prepare and customizable to fit your tastes.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes
Cooked and crumbled bacon
Ground beef or cooked steak bites
Shredded cheddar cheese
Ranch dressing
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash and slice the potatoes into thin rounds.
Toss the potatoes in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Arrange them in a baking dish in a single layer.
Bake the potatoes for 25–30 minutes until tender and slightly golden.
Meanwhile, cook the ground beef or steak bites in a skillet over medium heat until fully browned. Set aside.
Remove the potatoes from the oven and top with cooked beef, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.
Return the dish to the oven and bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted.
Remove from the oven, drizzle ranch dressing over the top, and garnish with parsley if desired.
Serve warm.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4–6
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes

Variations

Spicy kick: Add jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Meat alternatives: Use shredded rotisserie chicken, sausage, or even chopped ham.
Cheese options: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for variety.
Vegetarian option: Omit the bacon and beef and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or black beans.
Loaded style: Top with chopped green onions, sour cream, or hot sauce for extra flair.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, though the texture may soften.

FAQs

How can I make these potatoes ahead of time?

You can prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking with cheese. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.

Can I use frozen potatoes?

Yes, frozen sliced potatoes or hash browns can work. Adjust cooking time as needed.

What kind of cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is ideal, but you can mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or your favorite blend.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all the ingredients used (especially the ranch dressing) are certified gluten-free.

Can I make this dish in a skillet?

Absolutely. You can cook the potatoes in a skillet, then top with meat, cheese, and broil to melt the cheese.

How do I keep the bacon crispy?

Add the bacon as a final topping after baking, or only bake it briefly to retain its crispiness.

Can I use leftover meat?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for using up leftover steak, chicken, or roast beef.

What type of potatoes is best?

Yukon Gold or baby potatoes offer the right texture and flavor, but russet potatoes work as well.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in the potatoes, but you can freeze the cooked beef and bacon to save time.

What can I serve with this recipe?

It pairs well with grilled meats, fresh salads, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Loaded Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes bring together bold flavors and satisfying textures in one irresistible dish. Perfect as a side or a main for casual dinners, game days, or weekend indulgence, this recipe is both comforting and incredibly easy to adapt. Whether you keep it classic or get creative with add-ins, it is guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Loaded Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes

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Loaded Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes are a rich, comforting side dish featuring tender baked potatoes topped with crispy bacon, savory beef, melted cheddar cheese, and creamy ranch dressing.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Units Scale

2 lbs baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced into thin rounds
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/2 lb ground beef or cooked steak bites
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup ranch dressing
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Wash and slice potatoes into thin rounds.
Toss sliced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Arrange potatoes in a single layer in a baking dish.
Bake for 25–30 minutes, until tender and slightly golden.
While potatoes bake, cook ground beef or steak bites in a skillet until browned. Set aside.
Remove potatoes from oven and top with cooked beef, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheese.
Return dish to oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Remove from oven, drizzle ranch dressing over the top, and garnish with parsley if desired.
Serve warm.