Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes
- Cut Potatoes: Cut each potato into 8-10 wedges (depending on the size of the potato). Try to keep the wedges similar in size for even cooking.
- Season the Potatoes: In a large bowl, toss the potato wedges with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Step 3: Wrap Potatoes with Bacon
- Wrap with Bacon: Take a strip of bacon and wrap it around each potato wedge, starting at one end and spiraling to the other. You can secure the bacon with a toothpick if needed to keep it in place.
- Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the bacon-wrapped potatoes on the prepared baking sheet, with space between each one for even cooking.
Step 4: Bake the Potatoes
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, turning halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and the bacon is crispy.
- Check Doneness: You’ll know they’re ready when a fork slides easily into the potatoes, and the bacon is golden brown and crisp.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the hot potatoes with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor (optional). Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, like sour cream or ranch dressing.
Tips for Perfect Southern Wrap Potatoes:
- Choose the Right Bacon: Thin bacon crisps up more easily, while thicker cuts provide a chewier texture. Both work well, so choose based on your preference.
- Evenly Sized Wedges: Cut the potatoes into similar-sized wedges to ensure even cooking.
- Crispier Bacon: If the potatoes are done but the bacon isn’t crispy enough, broil them for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking time, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning.
- Toothpicks: Use toothpicks to secure the bacon if needed, especially if the bacon isn’t wrapping tightly.
Variations:
- Cheesy Potatoes: After the potatoes are done baking, sprinkle them with shredded cheddar cheese and return to the oven for 5 minutes until melted.
- Spicy Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
- Herbed Potatoes: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano for an extra burst of flavor.
Conclusion:
Southern Wrap Potatoes are the perfect blend of crispy, savory bacon and tender, seasoned potatoes. This dish is quick to prepare and sure to please, whether you’re serving it alongside fried chicken, ribs, or enjoying it as a hearty snack. It’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering!
Serve these with a side of barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or classic sour cream for dipping, and watch them disappear as fast as you make them!