Imagine pulling a bubbling dish from the oven, the kitchen filled with the irresistible smell of crispy bacon, roasted potatoes, and melted cheese. The edges are golden and crunchy, the centers soft and creamy, and every slice reveals perfectly fanned potatoes hugging smoky bacon. This Hasselbacon Potato Bake is comfort food at its finest—rich, savory, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table lean in for seconds. You’re not just making a side dish here; you’re creating a show-stopping bake that feels both cozy and a little bit special.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- You get crispy edges and creamy centers in every bite
- It looks impressive but is surprisingly easy to prepare
- The combination of potatoes, bacon, and cheese is always a winner
- Perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks
- Can be customized with your favorite herbs, cheeses, or add-ins
- Comforting, filling, and deeply satisfying
Ingredients
- 2 kg (about 4½ lbs) medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet work best)
- 250 g (9 oz) bacon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or Gruyère)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Wash and peel the potatoes if you like (peels on add texture). Using a sharp knife, slice each potato thinly, stopping just before the bottom so the slices stay connected. This creates that classic Hasselback look.
Step 2: Add the Bacon
Gently slide thin slices of bacon in between the potato cuts. Take your time here—this is where the magic happens. As it bakes, the bacon will crisp and infuse the potatoes with smoky flavor.
Step 3: Season Generously
Place the prepared potatoes snugly into a greased baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil or melted butter, making sure it seeps between the slices. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, garlic, and herbs. The aroma at this stage is already mouth-watering.
Step 4: Bake Until Tender
Cover the dish loosely with foil and bake for 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to soften and absorb all those savory flavors.
Step 5: Add Cream and Cheese
Remove the foil and slowly pour the cream over the potatoes. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and Parmesan. Return the dish to the oven uncovered and bake for another 30–35 minutes, until the top is golden, bubbling, and irresistibly crisp.
Step 6: Rest and Garnish
Let the bake rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps everything set and makes serving easier. Finish with a shower of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips & Variations
- Use thin, evenly sized potatoes so they cook at the same rate
- Swap bacon for turkey bacon or smoked beef if preferred
- Add sliced onions or leeks between layers for extra sweetness
- Try different cheeses like Gruyère, Emmental, or smoked cheddar
- For extra crunch, brush the tops with butter during the last 10 minutes
- Love spice? Add a pinch of chili flakes or paprika
What to Serve With It
This Hasselbacon Potato Bake pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted or grilled chicken
- Steak or beef roast
- Baked salmon or pan-seared fish
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette
- Steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli
It’s rich and hearty, so lighter mains or fresh sides balance it perfectly.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for best texture
- Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can soften the crispy edges
- Not recommended for freezing due to the cream-based sauce
Nutrition & Calories
Approximate values per serving (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 25 g |
Final Thoughts
This Hasselbacon Potato Bake is everything you want in a comfort dish—crispy, creamy, smoky, and deeply satisfying. It fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and your plate with pure indulgence. Whether you serve it as a standout side or the star of the meal, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Once you taste that first golden, bacon-filled bite, you’ll know exactly why this bake deserves a permanent place in your recipe collection.
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