Potato Bacon Casserole
Creamy potato casserole with crispy bacon, melted Cheddar, and tender vegetables, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook potatoes in salted water until tender.
- Fry bacon until crisp and cut into small pieces.
- In 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings, cook chopped onion and green pepper until tender.
- Place cooked potatoes, salt, pepper, butter, and hot milk in a large bowl of electric mixer.
- Begin beating on low speed and gradually increase to high until potatoes are fluffy.
- Add eggs, grated Cheddar cheese, cooked onion, green pepper, and bacon to the mashed potatoes.
- Beat until well mixed.
- Transfer to a buttered casserole and bake at 350°F for 35 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Yukon Gold potatoes instead of Russets. If you're short on bacon, you can substitute with cooked ham or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. To save time, prep your vegetables and bacon in advance. You can also try adding some garlic powder for extra flavor or use different cheeses like Gouda for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Potato Bacon Casserole makes a hearty main dish and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs or your favorite breakfast meats. It also complements dishes like Pork Chops And Cabbage Casserole, making it a versatile option for any gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato Bacon Casserole contains roughly 741 calories, with 14g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), potassium (40% of the Daily Value), and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1390mg per serving (60% 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 the casserole a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, and you may need to extend the baking time by a few minutes.
What can I substitute for sharp Cheddar cheese?
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use medium Cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese. For a stronger taste, consider using Gruyère or a smoked cheese. Mixing different types of cheese can also create a delicious flavor profile.
Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to sauté them first to remove excess moisture, which could affect the casserole's consistency.
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).