Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon
Indulge in the rich, creamy layers of these Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes that are perfectly baked with crispy bacon and fresh onions. This dish brings together tender slices of potato, mouthwatering Velveeta cheese, and a buttery Ritz cracker topping, creating a comfort food masterpiece that your family will love. Ideal as a hearty side dish or a comforting lunch, these potatoes are so delicious that leftovers are often the best part—your husband will be warming them up for days with delight!
8
Servings
350
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
medium potatoes
5 (peeled and sliced)
Velveeta cheese slices
1 (12-ounce) package (sliced)
butter
1/2-1 cup (cut into thin slices)
medium onion
1 (chopped)
bacon
1/2 lb (chopped)
milk
1 cup (none)
Ritz crackers
1 (4-ounce) package (crushed)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a deep casserole dish, start by layering the peeled and sliced potatoes evenly across the bottom.
3
Sprinkle the chopped onions over the potato layer, followed by the chopped bacon.
4
Add thin slices of butter generously across the layers to ensure richness.
5
Crush 1/4 of the Ritz cracker package and sprinkle it over the top, then pour 1/4 cup of milk evenly across this layer.
6
Lay down slices of Velveeta cheese evenly over the top.
7
Repeat these layering steps until the casserole dish is filled, finishing with a layer of crackers and Velveeta on top.
8
Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake in the preheated oven for 40-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly.
9
Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to set slightly.
Nutrition Information
22.5g
Fat
27.5g
Carbs
10.625g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes with Bacon?
They are a rich, comforting potato dish layered with Velveeta cheese, chopped bacon, onions, and topped with a buttery Ritz cracker crust.
What type of potatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for medium potatoes that are peeled and sliced; Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work well for this style of casserole.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Yes, for the best texture in this specific recipe, the potatoes should be peeled before slicing.
How should the potatoes be sliced?
Potatoes should be sliced thinly and evenly to ensure they cook through properly during the baking process.
What type of cheese is used in this recipe?
This recipe specifically uses a 12-ounce package of Velveeta cheese slices for a smooth, creamy melt.
Can I use real cheddar instead of Velveeta?
While you can use cheddar, Velveeta provides the specific creamy consistency characteristic of this particular dish.
How is the bacon prepared for this dish?
The recipe uses 1/2 lb of bacon that is chopped and layered raw or par-cooked into the casserole.
What oven temperature is needed?
The oven should be preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
How long do these potatoes need to bake?
Bake the casserole for 40 to 60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is bubbly.
What is the purpose of the Ritz crackers?
Crushed Ritz crackers are layered throughout the dish and used on top to provide a buttery, crunchy texture.
How much milk is required?
The recipe uses 1 cup of milk in total, poured evenly over the layers during assembly.
Can I use a different type of cracker?
Yes, other buttery crackers or even breadcrumbs can be used as a substitute for Ritz crackers.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe is designed to provide 8 servings.
What is the calorie count per serving?
There are approximately 350 calories per serving of these au gratin potatoes.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers in the dish, cover it, and keep it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated.
Can I freeze these au gratin potatoes?
You can freeze them, but be aware that the texture of the milk and cheese sauce may change slightly upon reheating.
What can I serve with this potato casserole?
It serves as a hearty side dish for roasted meats or can be enjoyed as a comforting lunch on its own.
Can I add other vegetables to the layers?
Yes, adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers can enhance the flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
No, this recipe contains Ritz crackers and potentially Velveeta, both of which usually contain gluten.
How do I prevent the casserole from being runny?
Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after baking allows the sauce to set and thicken before serving.
Can I use heavy cream instead of milk?
Yes, using heavy cream will make the dish even richer and more indulgent.
What size casserole dish is needed?
A deep casserole dish is recommended to ensure there is enough room for all the layers.
Should I cover the dish with foil while baking?
Yes, cover the dish with a lid or foil for most of the baking time to help the potatoes cook through.
How do I know when the potatoes are done?
The potatoes are done when they are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork.
Can I omit the onions?
Yes, you can omit the onions if you prefer, though they add significant flavor to the dish.
Can I add garlic to the recipe?
Adding minced garlic to the layers is a great way to add extra depth to the flavor.
What is the protein content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 10.625 grams of protein.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, you can substitute margarine, but butter is recommended for the best flavor and richness.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 22.5 grams of fat.