Are you ready to transform an ordinary dinner into a mouthwatering feast that will have everyone begging for seconds? This Cheesy Potato Bacon Bake is not just a side dish – it's a culinary experience that combines the crispy goodness of bacon, the creamy richness of cheese, and perfectly tender potatoes in one irresistible casserole. Whether you're looking to impress your family or bring a show-stopping dish to your next potluck, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for your secret!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced potatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash and dice the potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch cubes. If desired, you can leave the potato skins on for additional texture and nutrition.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the diced potatoes, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to create a consistent layer. Use a spatula to smooth the top and ensure even cooking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help the potatoes cook evenly and retain moisture. Place in the preheated oven.
- Bake covered for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to allow the top to become golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the cheese to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with additional chopped green onions or extra crumbled bacon if desired. Serve hot as a delicious side dish or hearty main course.
Tips
- Choose the right potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Bacon matters: Use thick-cut bacon and cook it until it's crispy for maximum flavor and crunch.
- Cheese selection: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar and monterey jack for added depth.
- Even cutting: Dice your potatoes into uniform sizes to ensure consistent cooking and prevent some pieces from being under or overcooked.
- Don't skip the resting time: Letting the dish rest for 5-10 minutes after baking helps the cheese set and makes serving much easier.
- Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated, then baked when ready to serve – perfect for meal prep or entertaining!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 266kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 11g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 44mg
