Sharp Potato Bake
A hearty potato bake layered with crispy bacon, sharp cheese, and tangy salad dressing, perfect for family dinners or comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook 8 to 12 potatoes until tender, then let them cool.
- Dice the cooled potatoes.
- Brown 1/2 pound bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced potatoes, salad dressing, chopped onion, grated sharp cheese, and crumbled bacon.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 1 hour until bubbly and golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a flavored salad dressing, such as ranch or a zesty vinaigrette. If you want a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the salad dressing. You can also mix in some chopped green bell peppers for a crunch or swap out sharp cheese for a milder variety if desired.
Serving Suggestions
This Sharp Potato Bake is perfect as a hearty side dish for grilled meats or as a main dish alongside a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Ham Rolls With Cheese Sauce for a comforting meal. For a complete spread, serve with crusty bread and pickled vegetables to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for quick reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sharp Potato Bake contains roughly 1185 calories, with 32g protein, 99g carbohydrates, and 74g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (64% of the Daily Value), potassium (53% of the Daily Value), and calcium (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1049mg per serving (46% 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 other types of cheese for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. If you prefer a milder flavor, try using mozzarella or Monterey Jack. For a sharper taste, consider using cheddar or pepper jack. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to achieve that gooey texture.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, simply omit the bacon. You can enhance the flavor by adding sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky taste. Additionally, consider using a vegetable-based salad dressing to keep it fully plant-based.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance. Just combine all the ingredients and store them covered in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).