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Loaded Bacon Ranch Cheesy Potato Sticks

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These loaded bacon ranch cheesy potato sticks are crispy on the outside, creamy and cheesy inside, and packed with smoky bacon and tangy ranch flavor. Perfect as a party appetizer, snack, or hearty side, they’re easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 8 slices cooked bacon, chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/3 cup ranch dressing
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tablespoons chives or green onions, finely chopped (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, plus more to taste
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Cooking spray or oil (for baking)

Instructions

  1. Peel and chop potatoes into 1-inch chunks. Place in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10-12 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and let cool completely.
  2. Mash cooled potatoes until mostly smooth. Stir in ranch dressing, ranch seasoning mix, flour, egg, cheddar cheese, bacon, chives, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined. If too soft, add more flour as needed.
  3. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and roll into a log about 3 inches long and 1/2-inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Repeat with remaining mixture (about 24 sticks).
  4. Pour panko breadcrumbs into a shallow bowl. Roll each potato stick in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere. Return to baking sheet, spacing out sticks.
  5. Chill the tray in the fridge or freezer for 10-15 minutes to help sticks keep their shape.
  6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray tops of sticks with cooking spray or brush with oil. Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end if desired.
  7. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Top with extra chives or cheese if desired. Serve with extra ranch or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For best results, use cold potatoes for shaping and chill the sticks before baking. You can swap bacon for sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version, or use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free. These freeze and reheat well. For extra crispiness, broil briefly at the end of baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: potato sticks, bacon, ranch, cheesy, appetizer, snack, party food, baked, finger food, comfort food

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