If you’re looking for a side dish that’s a little indulgent and a lot delicious, these Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potatoes are calling your name. They combine creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning in a way that makes each bite unforgettable. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun gathering with friends, this dish is sure to steal the spotlight.
Steps
- Begin by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and apply cooking spray to a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed hash brown potatoes, sour cream, one cup of Cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and ranch dressing mix until you have a uniform mixture.
- Transfer the potato mixture into the greased baking dish, cover it with aluminum foil, and bake in the oven for 45 minutes.
- After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and starts to brown slightly at the edges.
Ingredients
- Cooking spray
- 32 oz package of thawed frozen hash brown potatoes
- 16 oz container of sour cream
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided (or more to taste)
- 8 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 oz package of ranch dressing mix
Nutritional Values
Calories: 3400 | Total Fat: 280g | Saturated Fat: 152g | Cholesterol: 592mg | Sodium: 6424mg | Total Carbohydrate: 200g | Dietary Fiber: 16g | Total Sugars: 0g | Protein: 136g | Vitamin C: 88mg | Calcium: 2592mg | Iron: 8mg | Potassium: 5728mg
FAQ
- Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
- Yes, you can substitute fresh potatoes for the frozen hash browns. Simply chop and boil them until soft, then mash them slightly before using them in the recipe.
- What other cheeses can I use besides Cheddar?
- While Cheddar is recommended for this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like Swiss or your personal favorites to achieve different flavors.
- How can I make this dish more filling?
- To make the dish heartier, consider adding cooked chicken breast or other proteins. You can season the chicken with garlic and onion powder for additional flavor.
- Is it possible to prepare this dish in a different type of cookware?
- Yes, a Dutch oven can be used instead of a 9×13-inch baking pan. This might be useful if you’re increasing the recipe size or adding more ingredients.
- Can I add any additional ingredients for more flavor?
- Adding chopped chives or extra bacon sprinkled on top can enhance the flavor. Also, incorporating a bit more sour cream or some cottage cheese can make the dish creamier.
Tips
- For added flavor, consider using freshly cooked potatoes instead of frozen hash browns. Simply chop, boil, and slightly mash them before incorporating them into the mix.
- Enhance the recipe by adding extra ingredients such as chives for a mild onion flavor or including bits of cooked chicken seasoned with garlic and onion powders for a more filling dish.
- Don’t hesitate to increase the amount of sour cream used in the recipe. Adding more will result in a creamier and more flavorful dish.
- Experiment with different cheese varieties like Swiss cheese in addition to the Cheddar, and be generous when sprinkling the cheese on top for an extra cheesy finish.
Equipment
- 9×13-inch Baking Pan
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Aluminum Foil