Irresistible Oven-Baked Bacon and Potato Au Gratin – The Ultimate Comfort Dish (5 Easy Steps)"

Table of Contents

Introduction:

Some dishes just feel like a warm embrace, and this Oven-Baked Bacon and Potato Au Gratin is one of them. The first time I made this recipe was on a crisp fall evening when friends came over to watch the game. The aroma of sizzling bacon and cheesy sauce wafting through the house was absolutely irresistible, and there was no candle or air freshener that could match that scent.

What I love about this recipe is how simple it is. With just a few basic ingredients—potatoes, bacon, cheese, and cream—you’ll end up with a mouthwatering, decadent side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family dinner or a special holiday meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

If you’re a fan of hearty comfort foods, this recipe should definitely be on your rotation, right alongside the Old-Fashioned Chicken and Dumplings Recipe you’ve been meaning to try.

Ingredients for Oven-Baked Bacon and Potato Au Gratin:

6 medium potatoes, thinly sliced
6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs

Directions:

Preheat Oven & Prepare Sauce: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper, then stir in 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce is smooth and melted.
Layer the Casserole: Grease a disposable aluminum tray or a baking dish, and layer half of the sliced potatoes in the dish. Sprinkle half of the crumbled bacon on top, followed by half of the cheese sauce. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, bacon, and cheese sauce.
Top & Bake: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the casserole. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the potatoes are tender.
Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set. Enjoy this rich and delicious potato dish!

Tips & Variations:

for Oven-Baked Bacon and Potato Au Gratin

Beer-Infused Flavor: Add a bit of beer to the cheese sauce for extra richness. A lager or pale ale will work perfectly!
Cheese Variety: While cheddar is classic, you can try using Gruyère or mozzarella for a different flavor.
Add Veggies: For a veggie-packed twist, try adding spinach or mushrooms between the layers.
Make it Extra Crispy: Top with more breadcrumbs for an even crispier finish.

If you enjoy creamy dishes like this, you should also check out this Creamy Mushroom Soup Recipe for a warming, comforting meal.

Storage:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through.

Time & Yield:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6

Tools Used:

Baking dish (disposable aluminum tray or your choice)
Saucepan
Whisk
Knife and cutting board

Final Thoughts:

This Oven-Baked Bacon and Potato Au Gratin is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of creamy cheese, savory bacon, and tender potatoes, all baked to a golden, crispy finish, makes this dish impossible to resist. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, it’s sure to become a favorite. This Bacon and Potato Au Gratin is perfect for any occasion and will quickly become a family favorite!

For more Bacon and Potato Au Gratin inspiration, Delish and AllRecipes for plenty of comforting dishes.