Favorite Potato Casserole
A creamy, cheesy potato casserole with crispy bacon and green olives, perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, offering comforting flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp, then cut into small pieces.
- Mix mayonnaise, grated cheese, milk, chopped green olives, and bacon pieces in a bowl.
- Layer drained and sliced potatoes in the bottom of a 2-quart casserole dish.
- Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the potatoes.
- Repeat layering if necessary to use all ingredients.
- Bake at 250°F (121°C) for 35 to 40 minutes until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using sour cream in place of half the mayonnaise. You can also mix in some chopped green onions for added flavor. If you want to lighten the dish, substitute low-fat mayonnaise and cheese. Use any leftover cooked potatoes instead of canned ones for a more homemade feel. This dish can be customized with different cheeses or by adding your favorite seasonings.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or as a main course with a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Pork Chops With Celery Sauce And Rice for a comforting meal. Consider adding a side of steamed vegetables or a light vinaigrette salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method will keep the texture better.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Favorite Potato Casserole contains roughly 1216 calories, with 18g protein, 137g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (75% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (57% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 464mg per serving (20% 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 casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble the layers and cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's coming straight from the fridge.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
A blend of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese works wonderfully, providing a rich flavor and creamy texture. However, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just remember that the cheese should melt well to achieve that gooey consistency.
Can I add vegetables to this casserole?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like diced bell peppers, chopped spinach, or even frozen peas can enhance the flavor and nutrition of the casserole. Just be sure to sauté any fresh vegetables first to remove excess moisture, which could make the casserole soggy.
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).