Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Bacon: A Comforting and Flavorful Dish

 Scalloped Potatoes with Bacon is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender potato slices with a creamy, cheesy sauce, topped with crispy bacon. Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or special occasions, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Here’s a detailed recipe to help you create this delicious comfort food, along with tips and variations to make it your own.

Ingredients:

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

2 cups whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon paprika

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Prepare the Sauce:

In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.

Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.

Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.

Make the Cream Sauce:

Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps.

Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.

Layer the Potatoes:

Spread a thin layer of the cheese sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish.

Arrange a layer of potato slices over the sauce, slightly overlapping.

Sprinkle with a portion of the crumbled bacon.

Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of cheese sauce on top.

Bake the Dish:

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly.

Garnish and Serve:

Let the dish cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Tips and Variations:

Cheese Variations: Use a combination of cheeses such as Gruyère, mozzarella, or Swiss for different flavors.

Add Veggies: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.

Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Make Ahead: Assemble the dish a day ahead and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Conclusion

Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Bacon is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its rich, cheesy sauce and crispy bacon make it a favorite among many. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy making and sharing this delightful comfort food with your loved ones!

Feel free to try this recipe and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes with Bacon. Happy cooking!