Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this incredibly easy Bacon Scalloped Potatoes recipe. This creamy, cheesy potato casserole, layered with crispy bacon, is not just a side dish; it’s a culinary experience that elevates any dinner into a special occasion. Prepare for a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Scalloped potatoes hold a special place in my heart, evoking warm memories of childhood dinners. Growing up, the boxed variety was a staple at our table. My mom, a brilliant baker, often gravitated towards sweet creations, leaving savory dinner preparations for quick solutions. This meant that until I was old enough to venture into the kitchen myself, homemade scalloped potatoes remained an unknown delight. The moment I tasted the rich, creamy goodness of a truly homemade version, I knew I had found a new culinary obsession. I often find myself reaching for my favorite casserole dish to whip up a batch. But let’s be honest, everything is better with bacon, right? This recipe takes classic cheesy scalloped potatoes and elevates them with generous chunks of smoky bacon, transforming a beloved side into an unforgettable centerpiece. This dish is so good, it’s a highlight of our special “Bacon Month” challenge, where we celebrate all things bacon. Make sure to scroll to the end to explore more mouth-watering bacon-infused recipes from our collection and fellow bloggers!
Ultimate Cheesy Bacon Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
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While I’m the one sharing this recipe, the credit for perfecting this particular dish largely goes to my husband. He was meticulously working on slicing the potatoes for this recipe, using our trusty mandoline slicer. As many home cooks know, mandolines are incredibly efficient for achieving uniform slices, but they demand extreme caution. Unfortunately, my husband learned this lesson the hard way, leading to a minor injury that temporarily sidelined his typing fingers. So, as he recuperates, I’m taking over the keyboard to ensure this delightful recipe gets shared. Please, from personal experience, I urge you to exercise utmost care when using a mandoline slicer for your potatoes – always use the safety guard!
A Family Favorite: Bacon Scalloped Potatoes
This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, decadent side dish that truly feels like a main course. The combination of thinly sliced potatoes, a creamy cheese sauce, and the irresistible crunch of bacon creates a symphony of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of dish that disappears quickly from any potluck or dinner table, earning rave reviews every time. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat your family to a hearty, comforting meal, these bacon scalloped potatoes are guaranteed to satisfy.
Bacon Scalloped Potatoes Recipe
Cheesy scalloped potatoes generously loaded with crispy bacon, a perfect comfort food side.
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Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hr 45 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 5 mins
Ingredients
- 6-8 medium russet potatoes, peeled
- 1 tbsp minced onions
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups shredded Colby/Cheddar cheese blend
- 2 cups half & half
- 1-1/4 cup milk
- 5 tbsp butter
- 1 package bacon, cooked to crispy & roughly chopped
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
- Spray a 9×13 casserole dish with cooking spray and set aside.
- Using a mandoline (or a very sharp knife), CAREFULLY slice peeled potatoes into rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. Always use the safety guard if using a mandoline.
- Place sliced potatoes in a large bowl of cold water to prevent browning and rinse off excess starch.
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced onions and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the saucepan and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the milk and half & half. Heat the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Do not boil. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Lay out paper towels and transfer potato slices from the water onto the towels. Pat them thoroughly dry to ensure a crispier texture and better absorption of the creamy sauce.
- Arrange a single layer of dried potato slices in the bottom of the prepared baking dish, ensuring the bottom is just covered.
- Season this layer generously with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with 1 cup of the shredded cheese and a portion of the crispy bacon crumbles.
- Add another layer of dried potato rounds and repeat the seasoning process with salt, pepper, another cup of cheese, and more bacon.
- Continue layering potatoes, seasonings, cheese, and bacon until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of cheese on top.
- Carefully pour the warm milk mixture over the layered potatoes. Gently press down the potato layers to help them absorb the liquid, though they may not be fully submerged. Sprinkle any remaining bacon over the top.
- Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake for 1 hour with the foil on.
- Remove the foil, return the dish to the oven, and continue baking for another 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, bubbly, and the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Allow the dish to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
Nutritional information for the recipe is provided as a courtesy and is approximate. Please double-check with your own dietary calculator for the best accuracy. We at Yummi Haus cannot guarantee the accuracy of the nutritional information given for any recipe on this site.
Love this recipe? Follow @KleinworthCo for even more tasty recipes!
Tips for Perfect Bacon Scalloped Potatoes
Achieving the perfect creamy, tender, and flavorful scalloped potatoes with bacon requires a few key considerations:
- **Potato Choice:** Russet potatoes are ideal for scalloped potatoes because their high starch content helps to thicken the sauce, resulting in a creamier consistency. Yukon Gold potatoes are a good alternative if you prefer a slightly waxier texture. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes, as they tend to hold their shape too well and won’t contribute to the creaminess.
- **Uniform Slicing:** This is crucial for even cooking. A mandoline slicer is highly recommended for achieving consistent 1/4-inch thick slices. If using a knife, aim for as uniform slices as possible. Uneven slices will lead to some potatoes being undercooked while others are perfectly tender.
- **Rinse and Dry:** Rinsing the sliced potatoes in cold water helps remove excess starch, which can make the sauce gummy. Patting them thoroughly dry before layering ensures that the creamy sauce adheres well and prevents the dish from becoming watery.
- **Creamy Sauce Base:** Don’t skimp on the half & half and milk. This rich liquid base is what creates the luxurious texture. Heating it gently with sautéed onions and garlic infuses incredible flavor into every layer.
- **Cheese Blend:** A combination of Colby and Cheddar cheese offers both excellent meltability and robust flavor. Feel free to experiment with other good melting cheeses like Gruyere or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
- **Crispy Bacon:** Cook your bacon until it’s perfectly crispy before chopping. This adds a delightful textural contrast and a burst of smoky, savory flavor that is truly the star alongside the potatoes.
- **Don’t Overcrowd:** Ensure your casserole dish is appropriately sized. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and a less appealing texture.
- **Resting Period:** Allow the baked potatoes to rest for 10-15 minutes after removing them from the oven. This allows the sauce to set and prevents it from being too runny when serving.
Why Bacon Makes Everything Better
It’s no secret that bacon has a magical ability to enhance almost any dish, and scalloped potatoes are no exception. The savory, smoky, and slightly salty notes of crispy bacon perfectly complement the richness of the cheese and the earthy sweetness of the potatoes. As the bacon cooks within the layers, it infuses the entire casserole with its irresistible aroma and flavor. The textural contrast of tender, creamy potatoes against the crunchy bacon bits creates an engaging eating experience that keeps you coming back for more. It transforms a humble side dish into a gourmet experience that caters to all comfort food cravings.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
Bacon Scalloped Potatoes are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of main courses. They’re a classic accompaniment to roasted chicken, ham, or a juicy steak. For a holiday feast, they stand proudly next to turkey or prime rib. Beyond classic pairings, consider serving them alongside grilled pork chops or a hearty meatloaf. To make this dish a complete meal, you could even add cooked shredded chicken or ham into the layers.
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to try:
- **Herbaceous Twist:** Add fresh thyme, rosemary, or chives to the milk mixture for an aromatic boost.
- **Spicy Kick:** A pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce in the creamy sauce can add a subtle heat.
- **Different Cheeses:** Swap out the Colby/Cheddar blend for Gruyere, Fontina, or even a smoked gouda for a more sophisticated flavor.
- **Vegetable Boost:** Incorporate thinly sliced mushrooms, sautéed spinach, or finely diced bell peppers into the layers for added nutrients and flavor.
- **Garlic Lovers:** Increase the amount of minced garlic or add a touch of garlic powder to the potato layers.
Storage and Reheating Tips
These Bacon Scalloped Potatoes are almost as good, if not better, the next day! If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either warm individual portions in the microwave until heated through, or for a whole casserole, cover it loosely with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until bubbling and heated through. For a crisper top, remove the foil for the last 5-10 minutes of reheating.
These Bacon Scalloped Potatoes are truly a revelation – so rich, so cheesy, and generously loaded with irresistible bacon. They transform any meal into a celebration of flavor and comfort. Get ready for a new family favorite!
If you make this recipe, please share your creations! Leave a link or tag me on Instagram @KleinworthCo. I’d love to see your delicious results!
Looking for more easy and delicious family dinner ideas?
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Cheesy Spinach Crescents: Simple and Savory
One Hour Dinner Rolls: Quick, Fluffy, and Buttery
Bacon Month Challenge: More Irresistible Bacon Recipes!
As part of our dedicated “Bacon Month” celebration, we’ve teamed up with some fantastic food bloggers to bring you an array of creative and delicious bacon-centric recipes. From savory to surprisingly sweet, these dishes showcase the incredible versatility of bacon. Prepare to be inspired by these culinary delights!
Cheddar Bacon Ranch Pull-Apart Rolls from Love Bakes Good Cakes
Bacon Pasta Salad with Avocado Crema Sauce from A Simple Pantry
Peanut Butter, Banana & Bacon Muffins from Forking Up
Bacon & Egg Puffs from It Is A Keeper
Bacon Scalloped Potatoes from Kleinworth & Co.
Savory Oatmeal with Bacon, Spinach and Blistered Tomatoes from Cooking in Stilettos
Beer Bacon and Cheese Dip Recipe from Bread Booze Bacon
Sriracha Bacon Lobster Rolls from Nomageddon
Sticky Bacon and Salmon Kebabs from Hey Grill, Hey
For more great ideas and where I’m linking today, visit HERE.