Introduction
Welcome to a cheesy, comforting delight that will quickly become a staple in your household! If you’re someone who loves the rich flavors of bacon, the creamy texture of melted cheese, and the heartiness of tender potatoes, then this Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole is made just for you. Perfect for a hearty breakfast, a satisfying side dish, or even a cozy dinner, this casserole is sure to please family and friends alike.
This dish combines layers of perfectly cooked potatoes with crispy bacon and gooey cheese, all baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy recipe that allows you to put together a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for potlucks, brunches, or just a cozy night in, this casserole is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of comfort food at its finest.
Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to indulge in a dish that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings with every bite. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 4 cups of cubed potatoes (approximately 4 medium-sized potatoes)
- 6 strips of bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of grated cheddar cheese
- 1 cup of sour cream
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- ½ teaspoon of black pepper
- ½ teaspoon of paprika
- ½ teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup of chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Instructions
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- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
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- In a large saucepan, bring salted water to a boil and then add the cubed potatoes, cooking for around 10 minutes until they are just tender. Drain and set them aside.
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- In a frying pan over medium heat, fry the diced bacon until it becomes crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon onto paper towels, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.
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- Add the chopped onion to the same pan and sauté for approximately 5 minutes, or until they become tender. Incorporate the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant.
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- In a sizable mixing bowl, combine the drained potatoes, crispy bacon, sautéed onions, and garlic, along with the grated cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir everything together until the potatoes are well-coated.
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- Transfer the potato mixture into the pre-greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
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- Top it off by sprinkling the grated mozzarella cheese across the surface of the casserole.
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- Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
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- Once baked, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped chives right before serving to add a lively flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 55 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 1 pound of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Baking Process
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, thinly sliced
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chives or green onions for garnish
Instructions:
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Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your casserole cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden color. -
Prepare the Baking Dish:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with a bit of butter or cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking. Set it aside. -
Layer the Potatoes:
Arrange half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Spread them out evenly to create a solid base for your casserole. -
Add Seasoning and Ingredients:
Sprinkle half of the chopped onion, half of the minced garlic, and half of the crumbled bacon over the layer of potatoes. Season the layer with salt and pepper to taste. -
Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle one cup of the shredded cheddar cheese over the bacon and onion mixture. The cheese will add a creamy, rich flavor that melds beautifully with the other ingredients. -
Repeat the Layers:
Continue by layering the remaining potatoes on top of the cheese, followed by the rest of the onion, garlic, and bacon. Finish with the remaining cheese on top for that extra cheesy goodness. -
Mix the Liquid Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the sour cream and milk until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the casserole dish. This will help bind everything together and keep it moist during baking. -
Cover and Bake:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring that it does not touch the cheese on top—this will help prevent sticking. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. -
Uncover and Brown:
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden-brown. This step creates that irresistible crispy texture. -
Final Touches:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve. -
Garnish and Serve:
For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle chopped chives or green onions on top before serving. Your Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole is now ready to impress!
Enjoy this deliciously creamy and cheesy dish as a comforting main course or a delightful side. Happy baking!
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole is a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and beverages. Here are some great serving suggestions to enhance your meal:
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Fresh Green Salad: A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the casserole. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of feta for added flavor.
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Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, green beans, or roasted carrots to add some vibrant colors and nutrients to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is a perfect accompaniment, allowing you to soak up any leftover cheese sauce from your plate.
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Coleslaw: A creamy or vinegar-based coleslaw can provide a crunchy texture and refreshing taste that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
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Pickles or Relish: For a tangy twist, serve your casserole with a side of dill pickles or a zesty relish.
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Beverages: Pair this dish with a cold beer or a crisp white wine, like Chardonnay, that can balance the creamy and savory elements. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with lemon is refreshing.
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Breakfast Twist: Enjoy leftovers for breakfast alongside fried or scrambled eggs, offering a comforting way to start your day.
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Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a little heat, provide a bottle of your favorite hot sauce. A drizzle can bring an exciting kick to every bite!
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your preferences and the occasion. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole!
Conclusion
This Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with crispy bacon and tender potatoes. It’s a perfect dish for gatherings, weekend family meals, or even as a hearty side for a festive occasion. The layering of flavors and textures creates an irresistible dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or using different cheeses to suit your taste. The best part? Leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy whipping up this delicious casserole that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
