Party Potato Bake
A creamy and savory potato casserole with crispy bacon, onions, and green peppers, perfect for sharing at parties or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp; remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté chopped onions and green pepper in bacon fat until tender.
- Add cream cheese, milk, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until cheese is melted and mixture is smooth.
- Layer thinly sliced potatoes in a greased 10 x 6 inch dish.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the sliced potatoes and gently mix to combine.
- Top the casserole with the cooked bacon.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 50 to 55 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of sour cream along with the cream cheese. If you want a vegetarian version, you can substitute the bacon with smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor. You can also use pre-cooked bacon to save time. Ensure the potatoes are sliced evenly for uniform cooking. If you're short on time, frozen hash browns can be a great substitute for fresh potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for gatherings and pairs beautifully with Fran'S Baked Beans or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside some grilled chicken or a hearty meat dish for a filling dinner. For a fun twist, serve with a side of sour cream or a zesty salsa to add a burst of flavor. It's a great option for potlucks, too!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Party Potato Bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven will help maintain the crispness of the top layer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Potato Bake contains roughly 316 calories, with 7g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value), iron (14% of the Daily Value), and calcium (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1245mg per serving (54% 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 casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed until heated through.
What types of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe due to their buttery flavor and ability to hold up well during baking. They provide a nice texture and creaminess that complements the cheese sauce.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Just sauté them along with the onions and peppers to ensure they're cooked through before combining them with the potatoes.
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).