Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole, and when it involves layers of crispy bacon and tender potatoes, you know you’ve hit the culinary jackpot. This Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food that brings together the best of both worlds—savory, indulgent flavors and satisfying textures. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
What makes this casserole truly special is its simplicity; with just a handful of ingredients, you can create a heartwarming meal that feels like a hug from the oven. The combination of creamy cheese, salty bacon, and soft potatoes creates a symphony of flavors that meld together beautifully. Plus, it can easily be customized to suit your taste—throw in some green onions for added freshness or toss in your favorite cheese blend for a unique twist.
So grab your baking dish, and let’s dive into this delectable Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole that promises to become a family favorite! It’s an irresistible dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your heart.
Ingredients
- 4 cups diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Instructions
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- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
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- In a large pot, boil the diced potatoes in salted water for about 10 minutes, or until just tender. Drain and set aside.
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- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
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- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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- In a large bowl, combine the drained potatoes, cooked bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Mix everything well until the potatoes are evenly coated.
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- Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
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- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the casserole.
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- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh chives for an extra burst of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 min | Total Time: 55 min | Servings: 6
Key Ingredients
- Potatoes: 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly.
- Bacon: 8 slices of crispy cooked bacon, crumbled.
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
- Cream of Chicken Soup: 1 can (10.5 oz) for a creamy base.
- Sour Cream: 1 cup for added richness and creaminess.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, diced (optional, for flavor).
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon for an additional layer of flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons, melted, for greasing the casserole dish and added richness.
- Green Onions: Chopped, for garnish (optional).
Baking Process
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Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and thoroughly.
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Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and peel the potatoes, then slice them into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). If you want to save time, you can use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness. Place the sliced potatoes in a bowl of cold water to prevent them from browning while you prepare the other ingredients.
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Allow it to cool slightly before chopping it into bite-sized pieces.
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Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet with the leftover bacon grease, add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. If you prefer, you can use a small amount of olive oil instead of the bacon grease for a lighter option.
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Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir well until all the ingredients are thoroughly mixed. Season with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you desire, such as garlic powder or paprika for added flavor.
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Layer the Casserole: In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, begin layering the ingredients. Start with a layer of sliced potatoes, followed by a sprinkle of the sautéed onions, some of the chopped bacon, and a generous portion of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
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Add Milk: Pour the milk evenly over the casserole to help keep it moist while baking. The milk will also help the potatoes cook thoroughly.
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Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning while the potatoes cook. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
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Uncover and Continue Baking: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
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Let It Rest: Once fully baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to cut into portions.
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Serve and Enjoy: Scoop out generous portions of your cheesy bacon and potato casserole, garnishing with fresh parsley or chives if desired. This comforting dish is perfect for family gatherings or as a hearty side for any meal. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Serving Suggestions
The Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Here are some tasty serving suggestions to elevate your meal:
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the casserole. Add slices of cucumber or avocado for extra texture and flavor.
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Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus provide a healthy and vibrant contrast to the creamy casserole. A sprinkle of lemon juice or a dash of olive oil can enhance their flavor.
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Garlic Bread: Serve your casserole alongside warm, buttery garlic bread. The crunchy texture and savory taste complement the creamy potatoes beautifully.
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Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and zing to your meal. The acidity from the dressing will cut through the richness of the bacon and cheese.
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Sauces and Dips: Offering sides of sour cream, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo can give guests an interactive touch, allowing them to customize their servings.
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Buffalo Cauliflower: For a fun twist, try roasted or buffalo cauliflower bites. They add a spicy kick and pair well with the cheesy nature of the casserole.
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Beverage Pairings: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light lager can complement the flavors of the casserole. For a non-alcoholic option, serve a refreshing lemonade or iced tea.
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Brunch Option: This casserole makes an excellent addition to a brunch spread. Serve it with fruit salad, quiche, and coffee for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions based on your personal preferences and occasion. Enjoy your Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole!
Conclusion
This Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole is a comfort food classic that brings together the rich, savory flavors of crispy bacon and creamy cheese, all nestled among tender potatoes. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of textures—from the crispy topping to the soft, creamy interior—creates a delightful experience in every bite.
Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also allows for customization; feel free to add in your favorite vegetables or spices to cater to your family’s tastes. As it bakes, the aroma wafts through the kitchen, inviting everyone to come and enjoy a warm, hearty meal.
So next time you’re looking for a dish that is both satisfying and simple, give this Cheesy Bacon & Potato Casserole a try! Your taste buds will thank you, and your loved ones will be asking for seconds. Happy cooking!
