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Swamp Potatoes

Swamp potatoes are a Southern comfort food classic that transforms humble potatoes and bacon into pure magic on a plate. This rustic dish combines crispy bacon, tender potatoes, and savory seasonings into a hearty side that pairs perfectly with any main course.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 46 people
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern American
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 8 slices bacon chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 large russet potatoes peeled and diced into half-inch cubes
  • 1 medium yellow onion diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
  • 2 green onions sliced thin for garnish

Equipment

  • Large cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan
  • Sharp cutting knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
  • Paper towels
  • Small bowl for mixing seasonings

Method
 

  1. Peel your russet potatoes and cut them into half-inch cubes.
  2. Place your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the chopped bacon, stirring occasionally until it's crispy and golden, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving most of the rendered fat in the skillet.
  4. Add your diced potatoes to the hot bacon fat and stir well to coat them evenly.
  5. Let the potatoes develop color by cooking undisturbed for the first 5 minutes.
  6. After 5 minutes, stir the potatoes and continue cooking for another 8 to 10 minutes until they are mostly tender with crispy, golden edges.
  7. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, stirring well to combine, and cook for about 2 minutes.
  8. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper over the potatoes and stir thoroughly.
  9. Taste a piece and adjust seasonings to your preference, then fold in the reserved bacon and fresh green onions.

Notes

Swamp potatoes deliver incredible flavor from the simplest ingredients.