Sweet Maple Potatoes

These breakfast potatoes aren't your average morning side - they're a masterful blend of crunch and softness that turns ordinary potatoes into something amazing. After tweaking this dish for years in my kitchen, I've found the secret lies in three key steps: cooking for that golden outer layer, using bacon for richness, and finishing with maple syrup for an incredible taste boost. Just the smell will get everyone running to grab breakfast.

I've made these for so many people at weekend brunches, and nobody has ever tried them without being blown away by how the savory and sweet work together.

Key Ingredients Breakdown

• Golden potatoes: Don't peel them - the skin adds great texture and good-for-you stuff
• Quality bacon: You can use regular or turkey bacon, they each bring something different to the table
• Pure maple syrup: Don't go for the fake stuff - real maple syrup is a must here
• Fresh garlic: Adds wonderful smells at just the right time
• Old Bay seasoning: Gives you that ideal mix of spices
• Fresh parsley: Adds a pop of freshness when you're done

Making Showstopping Potatoes

Getting Started:

Pop your bacon in the freezer first - this makes cutting it up super easy. While that's freezing, cut your potatoes into same-sized pieces and let them sit in cold water so they don't turn brown.

Layering Tastes:

Get your cast iron pan really hot, then add your dried-off potatoes to hot olive oil. Add your seasonings little by little as you cook for the best flavor.

Adding Bacon:

Throw in your frozen bacon bits when potatoes are almost done, so the fat melts into the potatoes and makes everything tastier.

The Last Touch:

Put in chopped garlic near the end, then finish with that game-changing maple syrup that makes these potatoes so special.

Pin it

When I first tried making these, I learned the hard way not to add garlic too soon - those burnt bits were super bitter and ruined the whole batch.

Pairing Suggestions

Put a runny egg on top of these potatoes and let the yolk create a natural topping. Add some fresh fruit and toast on the side for a complete morning meal.

Tasty Twists

Try using different kinds of potatoes, mix in some caramelized onions, or add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. Each change brings something new to this dish.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

These taste best right from the pan, but you can keep extras in a sealed container. Heat them up in a hot skillet to bring back their crispiness.

I've cooked breakfast potatoes for many years, but this version has become my go-to recipe. The mix of techniques - especially that final touch with maple syrup - creates something unforgettable that makes any breakfast or brunch extra special.

Pin it

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What’s the purpose of freezing the bacon?

It cuts much cleaner and avoids sticking to the knife when it’s frozen.

→ Why put the potatoes in water?

Keeps them from turning brown and reduces starch for better crisping.

→ Can I prep this in advance?

Serve it fresh for the best results, but you can cut the potatoes early and keep them in water.

→ Are other seasonings okay?

Absolutely! Swap Old Bay for your go-to spices and it’ll still taste great.

→ Do I have to use maple syrup?

No, but it gives a sweet, caramelized flavor that really makes the dish shine.