Cheesy Bacon Potato Bake

These cheesy bacon potato bakes always deliver major comfort and delight in our house especially during chilly weekends when everyone craves something savory and hearty. The tender layers of potatoes melting together with creamy cheese and crisp bacon make for a real family favorite you will want to make again and again.

I first made this when my husband requested something extra cozy after a long day and now friends ask for the recipe whenever they stop by for dinner

Ingredients

• Medium potatoes: they form soft creamy layers when sliced thin choose firm and smooth potatoes with no green spots
• Shredded cheddar cheese: brings sharpness and gooey deliciousness a cheese blend also works for a touch of variety look for well-aged cheddar for more punch
• Cooked crumbled bacon: adds smoky savory crunch use good thick-cut bacon if possible
• Heavy cream or whole milk: makes everything beautifully rich and creamy organic cream tastes especially luscious here
• Butter: keeps the bake from sticking plus adds a subtle golden flavor choose real butter for the best result
• Garlic: infuses a lovely aromatic depth opt for fresh juicy cloves
• Small onion: boosts the flavor base use yellow or sweet onion for balance
• Salt and black pepper: bring everything together use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper if you can
• Paprika (optional): adds color and a hint of warmth smoked paprika adds complexity
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish: wakes up the dish and lends vibrancy choose bright green fresh herbs

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit this ensures the potatoes bake evenly with all the layers melting together smoothly Grease a large baking dish really well with butter making sure all corners are coated so nothing sticks

Prepare the Potatoes:

Peel and thinly slice your potatoes into rounds about one eighth inch thick If you have a mandoline or sharp knife use it for good even slices Place the slices in a bowl of cold water to keep them from browning and help remove excess starch this keeps the bake tender but not gummy

Cook the Bacon and Onion:

In a skillet over medium heat cook strips of bacon until they are deeply crisp and crackling Remove them onto paper towels to drain Carefully pour off some bacon drippings but leave a bit in the skillet Add diced onion and garlic Sauté until very soft and fragrant about two to three minutes this sweetens and mellows the sharpness

Assemble the Bake:

Drain and gently dry your potato slices on clean towels Layer about a third of the slices into the bottom of your prepared dish Sprinkle with salt and pepper then scatter on some of your sautéed onion and garlic bits Next add a handful of bacon and cheese Repeat these layers twice more making sure to end with plenty of cheese on top

Add Cream and Bake:

Drizzle cream or milk slowly over the layered potatoes letting it soak through Sprinkle paprika evenly across the surface if you want extra color and flavor Cover tightly with foil to trap in moisture and bake for forty minutes so the potatoes steam and tenderize

Uncover and Finish Baking:

Take off the foil and return the dish to the oven for twenty more minutes The top will turn golden and bubbly and a sharp knife should slide easily into the potato layers which means they are perfectly cooked

Rest and Serve:

Let the bake rest for about ten minutes so the cream settles and slices hold together Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley or chives right before serving for a pop of green and freshness

Pin

Crumbly bacon always makes me think of Sunday brunches with my cousins We used to compete for the crispiest bacon bits and those memories make this dish extra special for me

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers to room temperature then cover well and refrigerate for up to three days The bake actually deepens in flavor after sitting overnight Warm slices gently in the oven or microwave Sprinkle on extra herbs or a fresh cheese topping to revive the layers

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap turkey bacon or plant-based bacon for a lighter version Monterey Jack mozzarella or Gruyere can replace cheddar if you want something milder or nuttier For a dairy free take use unsweetened oat milk and dairy free cheese and skip the cream for broth

Serving Suggestions

Serve piping hot with roast chicken grilled steak or pork chops Add a crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette to balance out the rich flavors For a brunch spread this pairs perfectly with eggs and roasted tomatoes It is also a showstopper for holiday sides

The History Behind It

Potato bakes like this have roots all over Europe especially in France with their gratins and in British cooking too Each family adds their own flair mine loves the hit of bacon and the slightly rustic texture from hand sliced potatoes It is one of those dishes that feels both homey and celebratory a testament to how simple ingredients can create something special

Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I get perfectly tender potatoes in this dish?

Slice potatoes evenly and thinly, around 1/8-inch thick, and soak them in cold water to remove excess starch for even baking.

→ Can I substitute another cheese for cheddar?

Absolutely! Try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or a blend for a slightly different flavor and melt.

→ Is it possible to prepare this in advance?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking, or bake ahead and reheat gently covered to preserve moisture.

→ What goes well with this potato bake?

Pair with grilled chicken, roast meats, or serve alongside a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or extra onions for a similar savory depth.