Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole

Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole

Introduction

This Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or even as a satisfying side for dinner.

With tender potatoes layered in a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chives, this casserole brings a balance of textures and flavors that everyone will love.

The creamy, cheesy layers combined with the smoky, savory crunch of bacon make it a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and incredibly delicious.

This recipe takes the humble potato to a new level, adding richness and warmth to any meal.

Ingredients

To make this mouth-watering Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole, you will need:

2 pounds of baby potatoes or Yukon Gold potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds

6 strips of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled

2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your choice)

1 cup of heavy cream (or milk for a lighter option)

1/2 cup of sour cream

1/4 cup of butter, melted

1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon of salt

1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

1/4 teaspoon of paprika (optional, for a hint of smoky flavor)

Fresh chives or green onions, finely chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or a similar-sized casserole dish with cooking spray or a bit of butter to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Rinse and slice the potatoes into 1/4-inch rounds. You don’t need to peel them, as the skins add texture and extra nutrients. Yukon Gold or baby potatoes work best for their creamy texture, but you can also use russet potatoes if you prefer.
2. Place the sliced potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and let the potatoes cook for about 10 minutes, until they are just tender but not falling apart. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, sour cream, melted butter, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
2. Add the Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture and stir to combine. This will create a rich, flavorful base for your casserole.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Place half of the potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish.
2. Pour half of the cream mixture over the potatoes, spreading it evenly.
3. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by half of the crumbled bacon.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, cream mixture, cheese, and bacon.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
2. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
3. For an extra-crispy top, you can broil the casserole for the last 3-5 minutes, keeping a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes.
2. Sprinkle freshly chopped chives or green onions over the top for a burst of color and flavor.
3. Serve warm, either as a main dish or a hearty side. This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a crisp green salad.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy bacon into a dish that’s sure to satisfy.

It’s easy to make ahead and heats up beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights or holiday gatherings.

Every bite is a delightful mix of textures and flavors, from the soft, creamy potatoes to the sharp cheddar and smoky bacon.

Garnished with chives, it’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Whether served as a side or the star of the meal, this casserole is bound to become a family favorite.

Enjoy this comforting dish and share the warmth with loved ones around the table!