Bacon Scalloped Potatoes

Bacon Scalloped Potatoes Recipe - A Flavorful American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Bacon Scalloped Potatoes is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of bacon and onion with the creamy texture of potatoes and mushroom soup. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a rich and satisfying meal that is both easy to prepare and delicious. Whether you're looking for a new side dish to complement your dinner or a main course that will please the whole family, Bacon Scalloped Potatoes is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

History

The concept of scalloped potatoes, also known as potatoes au gratin in some regions, has its roots in French cuisine. The dish typically involves layers of thinly sliced potatoes, cheese, and a creamy sauce, baked until golden and bubbly. The addition of bacon to scalloped potatoes is a more modern twist, adding a depth of flavor and a hint of smokiness that elevates the dish. This particular recipe, with its use of canned cream of mushroom soup, reflects a mid-20th-century American adaptation, making it a convenient and comforting dish.

Ingredients

5 strips of bacon
1 onion, peeled and sliced
1 tbsp butter
4 potatoes, peeled and sliced
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
0.67 cup of milk
0.13 tsp of black pepper

How to prepare

In a large heavy skillet, cook the bacon until it is crisp.
Drain the bacon and allow it to cool, then crumble it and set it aside.
In the same skillet, cook the onion in butter until it is tender.
Stir in the potatoes, soup, milk, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the potatoes are tender, which should take about 10 to 20 minutes.
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top before serving.

Variations

Consider adding cheese for a richer flavor, using different types of cream soups for variation, or incorporating vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your Bacon Scalloped Potatoes turn out perfectly, consider the following tips:

- Slice the potatoes evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.

- Pre-cooking the bacon until crisp ensures it retains its texture and flavor after being added to the dish.

- Cooking the onion in the bacon fat adds an extra layer of flavor.

- Simmering the potatoes in the mixture until tender prevents them from being undercooked or overly firm.

Serving Suggestions

Bacon Scalloped Potatoes can be served as a main dish or a hearty side. It pairs well with simple green salads, steamed vegetables, or grilled meats for a balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe involves sautéing, simmering, and layering techniques to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version, use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cream of mushroom soup. Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon substitutes can be used for dietary preferences.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the bacon and onion mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to use. Assemble the dish with the potatoes and soup mixture just before cooking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Bacon Scalloped Potatoes in a pre-warmed dish, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, which can help cut through the richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Bacon Scalloped Potatoes contains approximately 250-300 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Bacon Scalloped Potatoes contains approximately 30-35 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of carbohydrates in this dish comes from the potatoes, which are a starchy vegetable.

Fats

This dish contains fats from several sources, including the bacon, butter, and the cream of mushroom soup. A serving of Bacon Scalloped Potatoes has approximately 10-15 grams of fat, depending on the specific ingredients used.

Proteins

Bacon Scalloped Potatoes provide a moderate amount of protein, primarily from the bacon and milk. A serving contains about 7-10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. The milk adds calcium and vitamin D, while the bacon and onion provide small amounts of various vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains potential allergens such as dairy (butter, milk) and gluten (from the cream of mushroom soup, depending on the brand). Individuals with food allergies should modify the recipe accordingly or consult with a healthcare provider.

Summary

Bacon Scalloped Potatoes is a rich, comforting dish that provides carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with various vitamins and minerals. However, it is relatively high in calories and contains potential allergens.

Summary

Bacon Scalloped Potatoes is a versatile and satisfying dish that combines the comforting flavors of bacon, potatoes, and cream of mushroom soup. With its rich taste and hearty texture, it's perfect for a cozy dinner at home. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs, making it a valuable addition to your culinary repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Bacon Scalloped Potatoes. It was a cold winter day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret for our monthly cooking exchange. Margaret was known for her delicious comfort food recipes, and I couldn't wait to see what she had in store for me this time.

As I entered Margaret's cozy kitchen, the smell of bacon and potatoes filled the air. I knew I was in for a treat. Margaret greeted me with a warm smile and a hug, and we got straight to work. She handed me a worn recipe card with faded writing that read "Bacon Scalloped Potatoes," and my mouth watered in anticipation.

Margaret explained that this recipe had been passed down in her family for generations. It was a simple dish, but one that never failed to bring comfort and joy to those who tasted it. I listened intently as she shared the story behind the recipe.

She told me that her grandmother had learned to make Bacon Scalloped Potatoes from a dear friend who had immigrated from Ireland. The friend had brought the recipe with her, and it had become a staple in their family ever since. Margaret's grandmother had passed it down to her mother, who in turn had passed it down to her.

As Margaret and I peeled and sliced the potatoes, the sound of sizzling bacon filled the kitchen. The aroma was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product. Margaret sprinkled flour and butter over the layers of potatoes, creating a creamy sauce that would bind everything together. The final touch was a generous sprinkling of grated cheese on top.

As we placed the dish in the oven to bake, Margaret regaled me with stories of her family's gatherings and celebrations where Bacon Scalloped Potatoes had always been a highlight. She remembered how her grandmother would make it for Sunday dinners, and how her mother would make it for special occasions like birthdays and holidays.

When the timer beeped, we eagerly pulled the dish out of the oven. The cheese was bubbly and golden, and the smell was heavenly. Margaret and I couldn't wait to dig in. We scooped out generous portions onto our plates and took our first bite.

The combination of creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese was pure perfection. The flavors melded together beautifully, creating a dish that was rich, comforting, and utterly delicious. I knew that I had stumbled upon a recipe that would become a favorite in my own family for years to come.

As Margaret and I sat at her kitchen table, savoring every bite of our Bacon Scalloped Potatoes, I felt a sense of gratitude for the friendships that had brought this recipe into my life. Cooking and sharing food with loved ones was a way of honoring tradition and creating new memories that would last a lifetime.

And so, with a full belly and a happy heart, I left Margaret's house that day with a newfound appreciation for the simple pleasures of good food and good company. I knew that I would cherish the memory of learning to make Bacon Scalloped Potatoes with her for many years to come.