Old Fashioned Potato
A hearty baked potato topped with melted cheese, bacon bits, ham, and sour cream, offering rich flavors and comforting texture perfect for a satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake the large potato until tender.
- While hot, chop the potato on a plate.
- Add melted margarine, Cajun seasoning, and shredded Cheddar cheese to the chopped potato.
- Top with bacon bits, chopped ham, and sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack, for added flavor. If you want a bit of heat, substitute the Cajun seasoning with a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dish pairs well with other American recipes, like a side of Pork 'N' Bean Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Old Fashioned Potato as a hearty side dish or a light main course. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Aunt Gert's Barbecue or a bowl of Judy's Hunter Stew to balance flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potato in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, ensuring it doesn’t dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Potato contains roughly 698 calories, with 36g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 49g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (71% of the Daily Value), calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2020mg per serving (88% 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 a different type of potato for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other types of potatoes such as russet, red, or even sweet potatoes. Each will bring a different flavor and texture to the dish. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time as necessary, especially for sweet potatoes which may require a little less time.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can substitute the bacon bits with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor. Additionally, omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken stock in any accompanying dishes will keep it vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato and toppings ahead of time. Bake and chop the potato, then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, mix in the toppings and reheat. Just be cautious, as the texture may slightly change, but it will still be delicious!
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).