Dive into a world of comfort and flavor with our indulgent Baked Potato Casserole With Bacon recipe. This dish takes the classic baked potato to new heights, combining creamy mashed potatoes with savory bacon, broccoli, and cheese. Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish or a satisfying main course, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite. Join us as we explore the steps to creating this irresistible comfort food masterpiece.
Ingredients:
For the Casserole:
- 6 medium-sized potatoes, cooked and peeled
- 1 cup chopped broccoli
- 1/4 cup chopped and sautéed onion
- 2 to 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 8 pieces of crispy bacon or turkey bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 10 oz sour cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chives for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked and peeled potatoes until smooth.
- Add Ingredients: To the mashed potatoes, add the chopped broccoli, sautéed onion, minced garlic, crumbled bacon, salt, pepper, butter, milk, sour cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the potato mixture to the baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with chopped chives. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious dish!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Potato Varieties: While russet potatoes are commonly used for baked potato casserole, you can also experiment with Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different texture and flavor profile.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to customize the casserole with your favorite vegetables. Try adding diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Cheese Options: Switch up the type of cheese used in the casserole to suit your taste. Gruyere, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese can be delicious alternatives to cheddar.
- Creamy Texture: For an even creamier texture, increase the amount of butter, milk, or sour cream in the recipe. You can also add a splash of heavy cream for extra richness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Allow the casserole to come to room temperature before baking as directed.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked bacon for this recipe? A: Absolutely! Pre-cooked bacon or turkey bacon works well in this recipe. Simply crumble it and add it to the potato mixture as directed.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly? A: While this casserole contains potatoes and milk, which are not typically part of a keto diet, you can make a keto-friendly version by substituting cauliflower for the potatoes and using heavy cream instead of milk.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto Version: Replace the potatoes with steamed cauliflower florets to reduce the carb content. Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, keto-friendly option. Additionally, opt for sugar-free bacon to keep the dish keto-compliant.
- Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of potatoes or omit them altogether to lower the carb count. Increase the amount of broccoli and other vegetables to add bulk and texture to the casserole without adding extra carbs.
Elevate your comfort food game with our Baked Potato Casserole With Bacon recipe. Packed with creamy mashed potatoes, savory bacon, and a medley of flavorful ingredients, this casserole is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and warm your soul. Whether served as a side dish or a hearty main course, this comforting creation is sure to become a staple at your family table. So gather your ingredients and prepare to savor every delicious bite of this irresistible dish!
