Bacon Potato Pancakes

Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, 3 to 5 minutes.

Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain; let cool and crumble.

Reserve bacon drippings in skillet.

Combine crumbled bacon, potatoes, flour, eggs, garlic, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl.

Pour vegetable oil about 1/4-inch deep into skillet with bacon drippings and place over medium heat; heat until the oil and bacon drippings shimmer.

Gently drop potato mixture by heaping tablespoon into hot oil and flatten potatoes into small patties about 3 inches in diameter.

Cook until browned, about 3 minutes on each side.