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Crispy Loaded Bacon Ranch Cheesy Potato Sticks

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These crispy loaded bacon ranch cheesy potato sticks are the ultimate comfort snack—crunchy on the outside, gooey with cheese inside, and packed with savory bacon and zesty ranch flavor. Perfect for parties, game days, or cozy family gatherings, they come together quickly and disappear even faster!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 medium russet potatoes (about 1.75 lbs), peeled and cut into thick sticks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 4 oz)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 2 oz)
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled (about 4 oz)
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • Ranch dressing, for dipping
  • Extra chopped herbs, if desired

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel potatoes and cut into sticks about 1/2 inch thick. Soak in a large bowl of cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch.
  2. Drain potatoes and pat dry thoroughly. Toss with olive oil, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
  3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Arrange potato sticks in a single layer, leaving space between each stick.
  4. Bake for 20 minutes, then flip each stick with tongs or a spatula. Bake another 15-20 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Add 5 minutes if needed for extra crunch.
  5. While potatoes bake, cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp. Drain on paper towels and crumble.
  6. Remove crispy potato sticks from oven. Sprinkle cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top, followed by crumbled bacon. Return to oven for 3-5 minutes, just until cheese melts and bubbles.
  7. Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with green onions and parsley. Let cool for 2 minutes to set cheese.
  8. Transfer to a platter and serve hot with ranch dressing for dipping. For extra crunch, broil for 1 minute if desired.

Notes

For extra crispiness, soak potatoes in cold water and dry thoroughly before baking. Use convection oven setting for even crunch. Watch cheese closely during melting to prevent burning. Potato sticks can be made vegetarian or dairy-free with simple swaps. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the oven for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato sticks, bacon, ranch, cheesy snack, crispy potatoes, party food, game day, comfort food, easy appetizer

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/crispy-loaded-bacon-ranch-cheesy-potato-sticks-recipe-easy-snack-idea/