Hearty Cowboy Potatoes: The Ultimate Skillet Comfort Food
Every element balances to create layers of smoky, cheesy, and spicy goodness.
If you crave a side dish thats as bold and comforting as it is simple to make, Cowboy Potatoes deliver everything you desire in a skillet. Combining golden, crisped potatoes, smoky bacon, gooey cheese, zesty barbecue sauce, and a kick from pickled jalapeos, this dish is designed to satisfy appetites in a big way. Perfect for casual gatherings, family brunches, or as a hearty addition to your dinner table, Cowboy Potatoes pack layers of flavors and textures in every bite.
Why Youll Love Cowboy Potatoes
- Bold, Satisfying Flavor: Every forkful features crispy potatoes, meaty bacon, sharp cheddar, and a tangy barbecue bite.
- Easy, One-Skillet Cooking: Minimal cleanup with cooking mainly in a single cast-iron or ovenproof skillet.
- Customizable Toppings: Add more heat, different cheeses, or load it up with extra veggies according to taste.
- Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: This dish feeds 46 people and is always a hit at gatherings.
What Are Cowboy Potatoes?
Cowboy Potatoes are a rustic, skillet-cooked side featuring parboiled potatoes sautéed in bacon drippings, seasoned with southwestern spices, then finished under melty cheese and smoky barbecue sauce. Pickled jalapeos and fresh green onions add a punchy contrast, while a dollop of sour cream offers creamy relief from all the savoriness. Every ingredient contributes to a harmonious, crave-worthy potato dish that channels the spirit of cowboy cooking: hearty, robust, and loaded with flavor.
Ingredients Youll Need
| Ingredient | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Red-skinned potatoes | 2 lbs (about 6 medium) | Cut into 1-inch pieces for even browning |
| Kosher salt | 2 tsp + for boiling | For seasoning potatoes and the dish overall |
| Bacon | 4 slices, chopped | Cooked crisp, both topping and flavor base |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | Added to bacon drippings for sautéing |
| Red bell pepper | 1, diced | Brings sweet, fresh balance to the skillet |
| Red onion | 1, diced | Savory, aromatic base flavor |
| Chili powder | 1 tsp | Southwest warmth and color |
| Ground cumin | 1/2 tsp | Earthy undertones |
| Garlic powder | 1/2 tsp | Punch of aromatic flavor |
| Black pepper | 1/2 tsp | Bold, peppery spice |
| Barbecue sauce | 1/2 cup | Your favorite variety, for sweet smoky finish |
| Cheddar cheese | 1 cup (4 oz), shredded | Melted over the top for gooeyness |
| Pickled jalapeos | 1/4 cup, sliced | Adds acidity and a touch of heat |
| Green onions | 2, chopped | For vibrant garnish and fresh bite |
| Sour cream | To taste | For serving; provides cooling creaminess |
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Parboil the Potatoes
Begin by adding the cut red potatoes to a medium saucepan. Cover with water by about an inch and heavily salt the water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutesthe potatoes should offer slight resistance if poked with a knife. Drain thoroughly so theres no excess water to steam them during sautéing.
2. Cook the Bacon
Place the chopped bacon in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat, stirring as it crisps. This usually takes 57 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and transfer to a paper towellined plate. Dont discard the bacon drippings; these will flavor your vegetables and potatoes.
3. Sauté Vegetables
To the skillet with bacon drippings, add 2 tablespoons olive oil, along with diced red bell pepper and red onion. Cook over medium heat, stirring, for 35 minutesahead of adding potatoes, the veggies should be starting to soften and caramelize.
4. Crisp the Potatoes
Add the drained potatoes to the skillet, toss with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper, and the remaining 2 teaspoons kosher salt. Stir well so spices are evenly distributed. Cook, flipping potatoes occasionally, for 810 minutes until edges are golden brown, crispy, and the potatoes are cooked through.
5. Pile On the Toppings
- Drizzle Barbecue Sauce: Evenly pour barbecue sauce over the potatoes for sweet-smoky tang.
- Add Cheese: Immediately sprinkle shredded cheddar so it melts from the residual heat.
- Scatter Jalapeos: Add as much or as little as you like for heat.
- Top With Bacon & Green Onions: Return the crispy bacon to the pan with chopped scallions.
What others are reading
Let the cheese melt, then serve hot from the skillet with a generous dollop of sour cream on the side.
Tips for Perfect Cowboy Potatoes
- Choose Red Potatoes: Their waxy texture helps them keep shape even after parboiling and sautéing.
- Dry Well: Always drain parboiled potatoes fully. Excess water can cause sogginess when crisping.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: It holds heat and encourages beautifully crisp, golden edges.
- Customize the Heat: Add more pickled jalapeos or even a sprinkle of cayenne if you want things spicier.
- Serve Family Style: Bring the skillet right to the table for a hearty presentation.
- Prep in Advance: Parboil potatoes and prep toppings ahead for faster assembly at meal time.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- Breakfast or Brunch: Cowboy Potatoes stand strong as a main or side with scrambled eggs, sausage, or steak and eggs.
- Cookout Side: The bold flavors pair well with grilled chicken, burgers, brisket, or ribs.
- Potluck-Friendly: With vibrant toppings and crowd-pleasing flavors, its always a favorite at gatherings.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit bacon and use plant-based bacon or smoked paprika for that infused flavor.
Variation Ideas
- Cheese Choices: Substitute Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a smoky gouda for a flavor twist.
- Veggie Boost: Add chopped poblano peppers, jalapeo, or mushrooms for extra depth.
- BBQ Sauce Styles: Try spicy, honey, or smoky barbecue sauces to change the flavor profile.
- Top With Eggs: For a breakfast-for-dinner meal, top the skillet with a few fried or poached eggs before serving.
- Loaded Cowboy Potatoes: Add a spoonful of guacamole or salsa for extra southwestern flair.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use russet potatoes instead?
A: Yes, you can substitute russets, but they tend to be starchier and may not hold their shape as well as waxier red potatoes. Adjust boiling time to avoid overcooking.
Q: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat to regain crispiness, or use the oven.
Q: Can this be made vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon. For extra flavor, consider smoked paprika or add plant-based bacon alternatives. Swap the bacon fat for additional olive oil.
Q: Is there a way to make it spicier?
A: Add diced fresh jalapeos to the skillet or increase the amount of pickled jalapeo. You can also sprinkle in cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste.
Q: Whats the best cheese for melting over potatoes?
A: Cheddar melts well and offers sharpness, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack also blend beautifully for extra creaminess and heat.
Expert Tips for Ultimate Success
- Dont Overcrowd the Pan: For best results, use a wide skillet and give potatoes plenty of space to brown.
- Resist Stirring Too Often: Letting the potatoes sit undisturbed encourages a deeper, crisper crust.
- Finish in the Oven: For maximum cheese melt and crispness, transfer the skillet to a 4006°F oven for 35 minutes after adding toppings.
- Dish Garnishes: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or avocado slices for extra color and flavor before serving.
More Potato Inspiration
- Twice-Baked Potato Casserole: Creamy, cheesy, and topped with bacon and chives for a comforting bake.
- Classic Breakfast Potatoes: Roasted with bell peppers, onions, and seasoned salts for a savory, diner-style experience.
- Loaded Baked Potatoes: Pile on your favorite toppersfrom broccoli and cheese to chili and sour cream.
Quick Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yields: 46 servings
- Difficulty: Easy, one-skillet method
Cowboy Potatoes: Nutrition Basics
| Per Serving (approximate) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350400 |
| Total Fat (g) | 2025 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 3842 |
| Protein (g) | 1214 |
| Sodium (mg) | 700900 |
Nutrition will vary with exact ingredients and toppings used. For lighter fare, reduce cheese and bacon, and use a light barbecue sauce.
Final Thoughts
Cowboy Potatoes are more than just a potato sidetheyre a statement piece for your table: rich in comforting flavors, fun to assemble, and irresistible to eat. With crispy potatoes, smoky bacon, lush cheese, sweet barbecue sauce, and a spicy kick from pickled jalapeos, this dish has all the heartiness and soul of down-home American comfort food. Make it for a crowd, and youre sure to have everyone clamoring for seconds.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a64673538/cowboy-potatoes-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a37598987/twice-baked-potato-casserole-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mJTxC0rQhs
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11668/best-breakfast-potatoes-ever/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VF97Ltr0WFo
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/potatoes/
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