Cheese And Bacon Potato Bake
A hearty and cheesy baked potato dish with crispy bacon, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. The combination of tender potatoes, savory bacon, and melted cheddar creates a comforting flavor profile that appeals to all ages and pairs well with a simple green salad.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, over medium-high heat, bring the broth to a boil; reduce heat to simmer.
- Add sliced potatoes and chopped onion; cover and cook for 5 minutes. Drain, reserving 1 1/2 cups of broth.
- In a skillet, cook bacon over medium-high heat until crisp.
- Remove bacon and crumble. Pour off all but 3 tablespoons of bacon drippings.
- Stir flour into the bacon drippings and cook briefly.
- Gradually add the reserved broth, cooking over medium heat and stirring constantly until the mixture thickens.
- Stir in shredded Cheddar cheese until melted.
- Combine the cooked potatoes and onion with the cheese sauce, then transfer to a baking dish.
- Top with crumbled bacon and additional cheese if desired.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade broth instead of canned. You can also substitute the sharp Cheddar with Gruyère or Monterey Jack for a different taste. If you prefer a healthier option, try turkey bacon instead of pork. Adding some garlic powder or paprika can enhance the overall flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheese And Bacon Potato Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also complements grilled meats like chicken or steak, making it a versatile side dish. For a comforting dinner, consider serving it alongside a bowl of Corn And Chicken Chowder.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on a microwave-safe plate.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese And Bacon Potato Bake contains roughly 801 calories, with 20g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (40% of the Daily Value), potassium (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 746mg per serving (32% 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 potato bake in advance by assembling it but not baking it. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I substitute for bacon?
If you want to make this dish vegetarian or simply prefer not to use bacon, you can use smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that smoky flavor. Alternatively, sautéed mushrooms or tempeh can add a nice depth without compromising on taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes into the cheese sauce. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick.
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).