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Hasselbacon potato bake

Hasselbacon potato bake

Hasselbacon potato bake is a creamy, crispy, and comforting dish featuring tender waxy potatoes layered with smoky thick-cut bacon and a rich cheesy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this easy-to-make classic delivers a hearty, flavorful experience with a golden, bubbly crust that impresses every time.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 600800g waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold or red), thinly sliced (about 1/8 inch thick)

Bacon and Aromatics

  • 200g thick-cut bacon, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Creamy Sauce

  • 2 cups (480ml) cream or milk (use low-fat milk or Greek yogurt for lighter version)
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 ½ cups (150g) sharp cheddar cheese, grated (or cheese blend/gruyere/mozzarella/blue cheese as preferred)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Garnishes (optional)

  • Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
  • Smoked paprika (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and thinly slice the waxy potatoes about 1/8 inch thick for even cooking. Peeling is optional as the skins add texture and nutrients.
  2. Cook the Bacon and Sauté Aromatics: Fry the chopped bacon in a pan until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels. In the same pan with some bacon fat, sauté finely chopped onions and minced garlic until soft and fragrant.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Whisk in cream or milk and warm gently without boiling. Stir in grated cheese, salt, and pepper until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.
  4. Assemble the Potato Bake: Grease a baking dish. Layer half of the sliced potatoes, then spread half of the sautéed onions and bacon over. Pour some cheese sauce to cover. Repeat with remaining potatoes, onions, bacon, and cheese sauce. Finish with a generous sprinkle of grated cheese on top for a golden crust.
  5. Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes or until the top is bubbly, golden, and potatoes are tender when pierced.

Notes

  • Slice potatoes evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
  • Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier slicing and better flavor melding.
  • Grate cheese fresh for quicker melting and richer taste.
  • Cook bacon and onions in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding and ensure even browning.
  • Taste the cheese sauce before pouring and adjust salt and pepper gradually to balance flavors.
  • Use waxy potatoes to avoid mushiness as starchy varieties break down too much.
  • For dairy-free: substitute cream with coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.
  • Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat in oven at 180°C (350°F) for best texture, or use microwave for convenience.

Nutrition

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