Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This potato with bacon and cheese recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple yet satisfying dish that's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe delivers a hearty and delicious meal, perfect for a quick dinner or a satisfying lunch. It’s a great example of how easy homemade cooking can be, transforming humble ingredients into a truly delicious dish. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions:
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Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and thinly slice the Yukon Gold potatoes. Aim for slices that are roughly 1/8 inch thick for even cooking. Thinner slices will cook faster.
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Melt the Butter: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Sauté the Potatoes: Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and slightly browned, about 10-12 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches.
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Season the Potatoes: Season the potatoes with salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using).
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Add the Cheese and Bacon: Stir in the crumbled bacon and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to cook until the cheese is melted and gooey.
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Stir in Sour Cream: Remove the skillet from the heat and gently stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt. This adds a creamy element that perfectly complements the savory bacon and cheese.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and chopped green onions over the top. Serve immediately and enjoy this delicious and easy meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Potatoes:
- Potato Type: Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they hold their shape well and have a creamy texture.
- Even Slicing: Consistent potato thickness ensures even cooking.
- Don't Overcrowd the Pan: Cooking in batches prevents steaming and ensures the potatoes brown nicely.
- Cheese Choice: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a blend.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Variations:
- Add Some Veggies: Include other vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrients.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like chives, parsley, or dill.
- Creamy Variations: Use crème fraîche instead of sour cream for a richer flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Fat: 15-20g
- Protein: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This potato with bacon and cheese recipe is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that’s both healthy and satisfying. It’s a great addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The simple yet delicious flavors make it a perfect weeknight meal, showcasing the beauty of homemade cooking. Enjoy!