Crispy Bacon Honey Roasted Potatoes: The Ultimate Sweet and Savory Side Dish with Golden Caramelized Edges and Irresistible Smoky Flavor

Golden baby potatoes roasted to crispy perfection, coated in smoky paprika, garlic, and olive oil, then tossed with sizzling bacon and drizzled with sweet honey for a rich

This irresistible side dish is the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and savory flavors that pairs beautifully with everything from holiday roasts to casual weeknight dinners.

History of Crispy Bacon Honey Roasted Potatoes

Roasting potatoes with fat has been a staple in kitchens for centuries, but the combination of bacon and honey has more modern roots. Bacon, long cherished for its smoky richness, gained even more popularity in the 20th century as home ovens made crispy roasted dishes more accessible.

Adding honey into the mix is inspired by culinary traditions that balance sweet and savory—something you’ll find from Asian glazed meats to European roasted vegetables.

Over time, home cooks began experimenting with bacon drippings and sweet glazes, leading to this crave-worthy pairing we now can’t resist.

Fun Facts About Potatoes, Bacon, and Honey

• Potatoes are the fourth most consumed food in the world, behind rice, wheat, and corn.

• Bacon dates back over 3,000 years and has been cured and smoked in countless cultures.

• Honey never spoils—archeologists have found jars in Egyptian tombs that are still edible after thousands of years.

• The combination of sweet honey and smoky bacon works so well because your taste buds respond strongly to contrasting flavors.

Time and Money Saving Tips

• Use pre-washed, bagged baby potatoes to save prep time.

• Cook extra bacon during breakfast and set some aside for this recipe to avoid cooking twice.

• Double the recipe and store leftovers for easy meal prep sides throughout the week.

• Buying honey in larger jars from bulk stores often reduces cost per ounce.

Substitution Tips and Advice

• Swap baby potatoes for Yukon Golds or Russets cut into wedges.

• Maple syrup makes a great alternative to honey if you want a deeper, woodsy sweetness.

• Smoked sea salt can add an extra boost of smoky flavor if you don’t have smoked paprika.

• Use turkey bacon for a lighter option, though you’ll lose some of the pork richness.

Pairing and Serving Suggestions

These potatoes pair beautifully with roasted chicken, glazed ham, grilled steak, or even as a brunch side with eggs.

Serve them alongside green beans almondine or a crisp garden salad for balance.

They also make a great addition to holiday tables where their glossy, caramelized finish adds a festive touch.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl

• Sharp knife

• Cutting board

• Baking sheet

• Parchment paper

• Tongs or spatula

Storage, Reheating, Freezing, and Make-Ahead Instructions

Storage: Store cooled potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

 Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes until hot and crispy, or use an air fryer for maximum crunch.

 Freezing: Freeze roasted potatoes in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen at 400°F (200°C) until heated through.

 Make-Ahead: Par-cook potatoes for 20 minutes, cool completely, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, add bacon, roast the rest of the way, and finish with honey.