Decadent Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Crispy Bacon – A Must-Have Side Dish

If you’re looking for a side dish that’s sure to steal the spotlight, look no further than these Decadent Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Crispy Bacon. With layers of tender potatoes smothered in rich, creamy cheese sauce, and topped with crispy bacon, this dish is the perfect balance of savory and indulgent. Easy to prepare and irresistible, this recipe will make your meal even more memorable.

Ingredients:

For the Scalloped Potatoes:

• 6 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
• 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the baking dish)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

1. Peel and Slice the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into thin rounds (about 1/8 inch thick). Using a mandolin slicer can ensure uniform thickness for even cooking.
2. Grease the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Create the Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
2. Add Milk and Cream: Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens.
3. Add Seasoning and Cheese: Stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, and thyme (if using). Once the sauce has thickened, add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 3: Layer the Potatoes and Bacon

1. Layer the Potatoes: Layer the sliced potatoes evenly at the bottom of the greased baking dish. Pour a portion of the creamy cheese sauce over the potatoes, making sure it covers them completely.
2. Add Bacon: Sprinkle crumbled bacon evenly over the cheese sauce. Repeat the process of layering potatoes, cheese sauce, and bacon until you’ve used all ingredients.
3. Top with Cheese: Finish with a final layer of cheese sauce on top and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top for a golden, bubbly finish.

Step 4: Bake the Dish

1. Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
2. Uncover and Bake Until Golden: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Rest the Dish: Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add color and a fresh, herbal flavor.
3. Serve: Serve the cheesy scalloped potatoes as a hearty side dish to accompany your favorite main course like roast chicken, grilled steak, or a fresh salad.

Helpful Tips:

• Cheese Variations: For extra richness, mix in Gruyère or mozzarella with the cheddar cheese. These cheeses melt beautifully and add extra flavor.
• Make-Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time! Assemble the scalloped potatoes, cover, and refrigerate overnight. When ready to cook, bake as directed, allowing a few extra minutes for baking.
• Crispy Bacon: To ensure the bacon is crispy, cook it in a skillet until golden before adding it to the dish. This adds extra crunch and flavor.

Why You’ll Love These Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes:

• Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is the epitome of comfort food. The creamy sauce combined with the cheesy goodness and savory bacon will make every bite irresistible.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, these scalloped potatoes make the perfect side dish that will please everyone.
• Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor: With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes rich and indulgent, without a lot of effort.

Conclusion:

These Decadent Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Crispy Bacon are a sure-fire way to elevate any meal. With layers of creamy potatoes, rich cheese sauce, and crispy bacon, every bite will satisfy your comfort food cravings. This dish is easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to become a favorite at your dinner table. Try it today and treat your family to an unforgettable meal!