Loaded Potatoes with Bacon and Cheddar – Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with Loaded Potatoes with Bacon and Cheddar. This hearty dish combines creamy hash browns. With rich sour cream, crispy bacon, zesty ranch dressing, and loads of melted cheddar cheese. For a savory treat. That’s perfect for any gathering. Or family dinner.
The first time I made this dish. Was for a casual family game night. Looking for something that could cook. Without much fuss while we played. I decided on this recipe. It was a massive hit! The golden, cheesy top layer was a sight to behold. And the aroma alone made everyone’s mouth water. My husband. A bacon lover. Was thrilled with the generous amount. And even my kids. Who are picky eaters. Asked for seconds. It turned out to be the perfect comfort food. To complement an evening full of laughter and fun.
What makes this Loaded Potatoes with Bacon and Cheddar truly shines?
This recipe shines. For its simplicity and crowd-pleasing flavors. It’s incredibly easy to prepare. Making it ideal for busy weeknights. Or spontaneous get-togethers. The combination of crispy bacon and cheddar cheese. Provides a classic taste. That’s universally loved. While the ranch dressing mix adds a unique twist. That sets this dish apart. From typical loaded potato recipes. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish. A side. Or even a brunch staple.
What You Need To Make This Loaded Potatoes with Bacon and Cheddar Recipe?
Hash Brown Potatoes: Serve as the hearty base. Soaking up flavors. And providing a satisfying texture.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a tangy counterbalance. To the richness of the other ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully to create a gooey, delicious topping. That enriches the dish with its sharp flavor.
Bacon: Offers a smoky crunch. That complements the soft texture of the potatoes perfectly.
Ranch Dressing Mix: Infuse the dish with a blend of herbs and spices. Enhancing the overall flavor profile. With little effort.
Steps To Make Loaded Potatoes with Bacon and Cheddar:
Step 1: Prepare Oven and Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
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Step 2: Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the hash browns, sour cream, 1 cup of Cheddar, crumbled bacon, and ranch dressing mix until well combined. Spread the mixture into the prepared baking pan. Cover with aluminum foil.
Step 3: Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese over the top, and continue baking uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden around the edges.
Step 4: Serve: Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving, ensuring the cheesy top is beautifully melted and slightly crisped.
Tip:
Achieving the Perfect Cheesy Topping. For the ultimate cheesy experience with your Loaded Potatoes with Bacon and Cheddar. A key tip is to layer the cheese both within. And on top of the casserole. Start by mixing half of your shredded cheddar. Directly into the hash brown mixture before baking. This ensures that every bite. Is infused with cheesy goodness. After baking the casserole covered for the initial 45 minutes. Remove the foil. And sprinkle the remaining cheddar on top. Then return to the oven. This technique gives you a beautifully melted and slightly crispy cheese topping. That is visually appealing and delicious. It also adds an extra layer of texture to the dish. With the top cheese layer becoming golden and slightly crisp. Contrasting nicely with the creamy, soft interior.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish up to a day in advance. And keep it refrigerated. Bake it just before you’re ready to serve.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
Feel free to add green onions, and diced bell peppers. Or even swap the bacon for sausage. For a different flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container. In the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven. Until heated through.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Loaded Potatoes with Bacon and Cheddar
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 1 32 oz package frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 16 oz container sour cream
- 2 c shredded Cheddar cheese divided, or more to taste
- 8 slices cooked bacon crumbled
- 1 1 oz package ranch dressing mix
Instructions
- Prep the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with cooking spray.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, 1 cup of the Cheddar cheese, the crumbled bacon, and the ranch dressing mix. Stir everything together until well mixed.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the hash brown mixture to the prepared baking pan. Spread it out evenly and cover the pan with aluminum foil.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Add More Cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes, and return to the oven.
- Finish Baking: Bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned around the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before serving to let the cheese set slightly.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
