Bake Potato Dish
A creamy, cheesy potato casserole topped with crispy bacon, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering comforting flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cooked and diced potatoes, American cheese strips, mayonnaise, chopped onion, salt, and pepper together in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Top the casserole evenly with chopped and partially cooked bacon.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 1 hour until heated through and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding sour cream along with mayonnaise. You can use sharp cheddar instead of American cheese for a bolder flavor. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Ensure the bacon is crispy before topping for added crunch. This dish can also be customized with herbs or spices to suit your taste.
Serving Suggestions
This baked potato dish is a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or barbecue, making it a perfect accompaniment for summer cookouts. It can also stand alone as a comforting main dish. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider pairing it with BBQ Water Chestnuts for a delicious spread.
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 325°F (163°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bake Potato Dish contains roughly 926 calories, with 17g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 42g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (64% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1185mg per serving (52% 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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What other toppings can I use?
Feel free to get creative with toppings! You can add shredded cheese for an extra cheesy finish, or sprinkle chopped herbs like chives or parsley for freshness. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving.
Can I freeze the baked potato dish?
Yes, you can freeze this dish before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed. Keep in mind that the potatoes may be a bit softer after freezing.
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).