Irresistible Bacon-Wrapped Baby Potato Skewers with Cheese Drizzle
Imagine savoring a skewer where crispy bacon hugs tender baby potatoes and is finished with a luscious cheese sauce. This scrumptious creation isn't just a side dish; it's a flavor-packed experience waiting to be had. Perfect for a weekend barbecue or a cozy family dinner, these Bacon-Wrapped Baby Potato Skewers are sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
The secret to this mouthwatering delight lies in the details. Choose firm, small baby potatoes for their creamy interior and ability to absorb flavors without falling apart. The bacon adds a savory smokiness, while the cheese sauce provides a creamy finish that ties it all together. For best results, par-cook the potatoes to ensure they’re the perfect tenderness before baking or grilling. When threading the skewers, weave the bacon around each potato to lock in the flavor and create an enticing presentation.
To achieve the perfect texture, preheat your oven and allow your cheese sauce to come to room temperature before microwaving. Preparing the bacon until crisp guarantees a delightful contrast to the soft potatoes. With these tips and tricks, you'll not only master this recipe, but you'll also thrill anyone lucky enough to sample it.
Ingredients
- 18–24 baby potatoes (4–6 small potatoes per skewer)
- 2 tablespoons water
- 6 slices bacon
- 6 (12-inch) skewers
- ½ cup processed cheese sauce
Ingredient Roles: Baby potatoes offer a tender base, while bacon provides a savory, crispy contrast—the cheese sauce adds indulgence. Swap processed cheese for your favorite melted cheese for a flavor twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to ensure a crispy bacon finish.
- Cook the potatoes: Place the baby potatoes in a microwave-safe bowl with 2 tablespoons of water. Cover and microwave on HIGH for 7–8 minutes until they are semi-tender. Drain and set aside.
- Thread the skewers: Take a bacon slice and thread the end onto the skewer. Follow with a potato and wrap the bacon around its side. Thread again, alternating bacon and potatoes, ensuring each potato is kissed with bacon.
- Bake the skewers: Place the skewers on a baking sheet. Bake for 15–18 minutes until the bacon is crispy and the potatoes are tender.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: Microwave the cheese sauce on HIGH for 1–2 minutes until it's hot and ready to drizzle over your skewers.
- Serve and enjoy: Drizzle the cheese sauce generously over the skewers before serving.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Potatoes too hard? Microwave them for 2 more minutes before assembling.
- Bacon not crispy enough? Add an extra 5 minutes to baking time, watching to prevent burning.
- Cheese sauce too thick? Stir in a splash of milk and microwave for an additional 30 seconds.
- Skewers difficult to handle? Soak in water for 30 minutes before use to prevent them from burning or breaking.
Ideas for Pairing with the Recipe
- Side dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea infused with citrus.
- Desserts: Complement with a light fruit sorbet for a refreshing end to the meal.
How to Store Properly
- For refrigeration: Place skewers in an airtight container; they stay fresh for up to 3 days.
- For freezing: Wrap skewers in aluminum foil and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Cheese sauce: Store leftover cheese sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
FAQs
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead? Yes, just adjust the cooking time as they cook faster than regular potatoes.
- Is the cheese sauce necessary? While it enhances the flavor, you can omit it or substitute with a drizzle of sour cream or yogurt.
- Can I add additional spices? Absolutely! A sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder adds extra depth of flavor.
- Is this dish suitable for vegetarians? Simply omit the bacon or use a plant-based alternative to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
