Bacon Cheese Potatoes
Bacon Cheese Potatoes is a comforting baked dish featuring tender potatoes combined with creamy American cheese, crispy bacon, and savory black olives. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it offers a rich, cheesy flavor with a hint of smokiness and saltiness, topped with fresh herbs for added aroma.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel the potatoes, place in a saucepan, and cover with water.
- Cook until tender but firm, then drain and cube.
- In a bowl, mix the cubed potatoes, chopped onion, cubed processed American cheese, and mayonnaise.
- Transfer the mixture to an ungreased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the top with cooked, crumbled bacon and sliced black olives.
- Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes or until heated through.
- If desired, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and paprika before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider using sharp cheddar cheese instead of processed American cheese. You can also swap out the mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter dressing. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked bacon. This dish can be prepared a day in advance and baked just before serving, making it a great option for gatherings alongside the Make Ahead Breakfast Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm as a hearty side for grilled meats or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with the Country Brunch Casserole or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish at potlucks. For a touch of freshness, add a side of steamed vegetables or a fruit salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture of the potatoes and toppings.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bacon Cheese Potatoes contains roughly 711 calories, with 20g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), potassium (56% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (53% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 493mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can definitely experiment with different cheeses! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack would all add unique flavors. Just keep in mind that the melting properties may vary, so choose cheese that melts well for the best results.
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can omit the bacon and replace it with sautéed mushrooms or extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor. Additionally, you can use a plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast to keep it vegetarian while still being delicious.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the entire dish a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, bake it directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).