When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, indulgent appeal of Loaded Bacon + Roasted Garlic Potatoes. This recipe is a celebration of all things savory and satisfying, perfect for warming up on a chilly evening or adding a decadent touch to a special family gathering. Imagine tender slices of Yukon potatoes layered in a velvety, cheese-infused sauce, topped with crispy bacon and the subtle sweetness of roasted garlic. Every bite offers a symphony of flavors, from the smokiness of the bacon to the creamy, tangy sharpness of Tillamook Cheddar, all balanced by fragrant herbs like thyme and rosemary.

This dish is more than just a side; it can easily take center stage on your dinner table. Whether paired with a simple green salad or served alongside a roasted meat dish, these Loaded Bacon + Roasted Garlic Potatoes are versatile enough to be enjoyed in various ways. It’s a recipe that brings people together, perfect for potlucks, holiday feasts, or a comforting weeknight meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, destined to become a go-to in your recipe repertoire.

The Ingredients Overview

Each ingredient in this Loaded Bacon + Roasted Garlic Potatoes recipe plays a crucial role in creating a dish that’s both rich in flavor and texture. Starting with the foundation, Yukon potatoes are chosen for their creamy texture and subtle sweetness, which pair perfectly with the savory elements of the dish. Their ability to hold their shape while absorbing flavors makes them ideal for gratins.

The star of the show is the cheese, specifically Tillamook Sharp Cheddar and Tillamook Sharp White Cheddar. These high-quality cheeses are known for their robust, tangy flavor and smooth melting properties, which create a luscious, creamy sauce that envelops the potatoes. The sharpness of the cheddar balances the richness of the dish, providing depth and complexity to every bite.

Bacon adds a delightful crunch and a smoky, savory flavor that complements the creaminess of the potatoes and cheese. By cooking the bacon until crispy and using some of the rendered fat in the roux, the dish gains an additional layer of flavor that ties all the ingredients together.

Roasted garlic is another key ingredient, offering a mellow, sweet undertone that contrasts beautifully with the sharpness of the cheddar. Unlike raw garlic, which can be harsh, roasting caramelizes the garlic, bringing out its natural sweetness and adding a subtle depth to the sauce.

Finally, the spices—paprika, thyme, and rosemary—are carefully selected to enhance the overall flavor profile. Paprika adds a gentle warmth and a hint of smokiness, while thyme and rosemary bring earthy, aromatic notes that elevate the dish from simple comfort food to a gourmet experience. These herbs not only complement the savory ingredients but also provide a fragrant finish that lingers on the palate, making every bite memorable.

The Importance of Bacon and Garlic in Comfort Foods

Bacon and garlic are essential components in comfort foods, bringing a combination of flavors and textures that elevate any dish. Bacon, with its smoky, savory taste and irresistible crispiness, adds a layer of complexity that contrasts beautifully with the creamy, rich elements of this recipe. The crispy texture of bacon not only provides a delightful crunch but also infuses the entire dish with its distinctive, smoky flavor, making each bite more satisfying.

Roasted garlic, on the other hand, contributes a subtle sweetness and depth that complements the sharpness of the cheddar cheese. Unlike raw garlic, which can be pungent and overpowering, roasted garlic mellows out, becoming almost caramel-like in flavor. This natural sweetness helps to balance the richness of the cheese sauce, ensuring that the dish remains flavorful without being overly heavy. Together, bacon and roasted garlic create a harmonious blend that transforms this potato dish into a comforting and indulgent experience.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats up, prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or non-stick spray. This ensures that the potatoes won’t stick to the dish and will help with easy serving later on.

Cooking the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook six strips of bacon over medium heat until they are crispy and golden brown, turning occasionally for even cooking. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. Reserve 2-3 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the skillet—this will be used to add flavor to the cheese sauce. After the bacon has cooled slightly, crumble it into small pieces and set it aside for later use.

Making the Roux and Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat, add 2 tablespoons of butter and allow it to melt over medium heat. Once melted, add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the skillet, whisking constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes, or until it turns a light golden color and loses its raw flour taste.

Gradually pour in 2 cups of whole milk, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Once thickened, add the roasted garlic, 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary, stirring to combine. Next, gradually stir in 12 ounces of shredded Tillamook Sharp Cheddar and 6 ounces of Tillamook Sharp White Cheddar until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Dish

Arrange the thinly sliced Yukon potatoes in an even layer in the prepared baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, making sure each slice is well-coated. Use a spatula to gently spread the sauce if necessary, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon evenly over the top of the potatoes. This layering ensures that every bite will have a mix of creamy cheese, tender potatoes, and crispy bacon.

Baking the Dish

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil, sprinkle additional shredded Tillamook Sharp Cheddar on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden and bubbly. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Loaded Bacon + Roasted Garlic Potatoes is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways, whether as a hearty side or a satisfying main course. When serving as a side, aim for portions of about 1 cup per person, which pairs well with a variety of mains. This dish complements roasted meats beautifully—think herb-crusted roast beef, honey-glazed ham, or a juicy roasted chicken. The richness of the potatoes balances the savory, robust flavors of the meat, creating a well-rounded meal.

If you prefer a lighter accompaniment, consider serving the potatoes alongside grilled vegetables like asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or green beans. The crisp, fresh flavors of the vegetables provide a nice contrast to the creamy, cheesy potatoes, ensuring the meal doesn’t feel too heavy.

For those looking to enjoy the dish as a main course, simply increase the portion size to about 1.5 to 2 cups per person. You can also add a simple green salad on the side to add freshness and a bit of crunch.

When it comes to beverages, a crisp white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs well, as their acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and bacon. For red wine lovers, a light Pinot Noir or a medium-bodied Merlot works nicely. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling apple cider or a refreshing iced tea with a splash of lemon can complement the dish’s rich flavors.

Tips for Perfect Roasted Garlic and Crispy Bacon

Achieving perfect roasted garlic and crispy bacon requires attention to detail, but the results are well worth the effort. To roast garlic, start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off a whole head of garlic to expose the cloves, then drizzle with olive oil and wrap it in aluminum foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the cloves are soft, golden, and caramelized. This slow roasting process mellows the garlic’s pungency and brings out a sweet, rich flavor that enhances any dish.

For perfectly crispy bacon, begin by laying the strips in a cold skillet, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook the bacon over medium heat, allowing the fat to render slowly, which helps achieve an even crispiness without burning. Turn the strips occasionally, cooking for about 8-10 minutes until they reach your desired level of crispness. To avoid greasy bacon, drain the cooked strips on a paper towel-lined plate immediately after removing them from the skillet. This step not only removes excess grease but also helps the bacon stay crisp longer. These techniques ensure that both the garlic and bacon contribute their best flavors and textures to your dish.

Recipe Variations and Add-Ons

Vegetarian Option: To create a vegetarian version of this dish, simply omit the bacon and replace it with hearty vegetables that add both flavor and texture. Sliced mushrooms, such as cremini or portobello, are excellent choices as they provide a meaty, umami-rich depth to the dish. Sauté the mushrooms in a little butter or olive oil until they are browned and tender before adding them to the potatoes. For added color and nutrition, consider incorporating fresh spinach. Simply wilt the spinach in a pan with a touch of garlic and olive oil before layering it with the potatoes. These vegetables not only make the dish vegetarian-friendly but also add layers of flavor and a satisfying texture.

Spicy Version: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, spice up the dish by adding jalapeños or substituting some of the cheddar cheese with pepper jack. Thinly slice fresh jalapeños and scatter them throughout the layers of potatoes for a subtle kick, or use pickled jalapeños for a tangier flavor. To enhance the spiciness, you can also mix in a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper into the cheese sauce. The pepper jack cheese brings its own spicy, creamy notes, perfectly complementing the heat from the jalapeños.

Gourmet Twist: Elevate this comforting dish to gourmet status by incorporating luxurious ingredients like truffle oil or experimenting with different cheese blends. A drizzle of truffle oil over the top of the baked potatoes adds a rich, earthy aroma that pairs beautifully with the roasted garlic and cheese. For the cheese sauce, try blending gruyère, fontina, or even a bit of blue cheese with the cheddar for a more complex flavor profile. Additionally, consider topping the dish with toasted breadcrumbs mixed with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan for a crispy, sophisticated finish. These small additions can transform the dish into an elegant side for special occasions or dinner parties.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To maintain the freshness and flavor of your Loaded Bacon + Roasted Garlic Potatoes, proper storage is essential. After the dish has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. If you prefer, you can also cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator, where they will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, which can keep for up to 2-3 months.

When reheating, it’s important to do so gently to prevent the potatoes from drying out and the cheese from becoming overly greasy. If reheating from the refrigerator, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the potatoes in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. If the potatoes seem dry, add a splash of milk or cream before covering and reheating.

For quicker reheating, you can use a microwave. Place a portion of the potatoes in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until fully warmed. The damp paper towel helps keep the potatoes moist and prevents the cheese from becoming rubbery. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator before following the oven or microwave reheating instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, you can use different types of potatoes in this recipe. While Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for their creamy texture, Russet potatoes are a good alternative if you want a fluffier consistency. Red potatoes can also be used for a firmer texture, though they might not absorb the cheese sauce as well as Yukon Golds.

What other cheeses can I use if I don’t have Tillamook?
If Tillamook cheese isn’t available, you can substitute it with other high-quality sharp cheddar cheeses. Cabot, Kerrygold, or even a good English cheddar will work well. For a slightly different flavor profile, you could also mix in cheeses like Gruyère, Gouda, or Monterey Jack, which melt nicely and add their own unique tastes to the dish.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish can be prepared ahead of time. You can assemble the potatoes and cheese sauce in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, allow the dish to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

Is it possible to freeze the leftovers?
Yes, the leftovers can be frozen. Portion the cooled potatoes into airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. They can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.

How do I make the dish less rich?
To make the dish less rich, you can reduce the amount of cheese by about one-third and use a mix of whole milk and low-fat milk instead of just whole milk. Additionally, swapping out some of the cream with chicken or vegetable broth can lighten the sauce while still maintaining its creamy texture.

Conclusion

Loaded Bacon + Roasted Garlic Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and the rich sweetness of roasted garlic into a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Whether served as a side at a family gathering or enjoyed as a hearty main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Its versatility, from easy ingredient substitutions to gourmet enhancements, ensures that it can be tailored to any occasion. Don’t miss out on experiencing this delicious, crowd-pleasing dish—try it today and savor every comforting bite!

Loaded Bacon + Roasted Garlic Potatoes

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• Author: Christine

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Description

Loaded Bacon + Roasted Garlic Potatoes is a decadent, comforting dish that combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon, roasted garlic, and creamy cheddar cheese. This recipe features tender Yukon Gold potatoes smothered in a rich cheese sauce and topped with a generous layer of bacon, making it the perfect indulgence for any occasion. Whether served as a side dish at holiday gatherings or as a main course on a cozy evening, these potatoes are sure to impress with their depth of flavor and satisfying textures. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, this dish is destined to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 strips of bacon
• 5–6 cloves of roasted garlic
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk
• 12 oz Tillamook Sharp Cheddar, shredded
• ¹⁄₄tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 6 oz Tillamook Sharp White Cheddar, shredded
• 4–5 medium yukon potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon, crumble it, and set it aside. Reserve 2-3 tbsp of bacon fat in the skillet.

3. Add butter to the skillet with bacon fat. Once melted, add flour and whisk to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes until golden.

4. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens.

5. Add roasted garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine.

6. Gradually stir in Tillamook Sharp Cheddar and Tillamook White Cheddar until the sauce is creamy.

7. Place the sliced potatoes in the greased baking dish. Pour the cheese sauce over the potatoes, ensuring they are evenly coated. Sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top.

8. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Then, uncover the dish, sprinkle additional Tillamook Sharp Cheddar on top, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, and the top is golden and bubbly.

9. Let the potatoes rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your Roasted Garlic and Bacon Cheddar Potatoes Au Gratin!

Notes

For the best results, use high-quality ingredients like Tillamook Sharp Cheddar and Yukon Gold potatoes. These choices enhance the flavor and texture of the dish, ensuring a creamy, flavorful experience with every bite. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, consider using a combination of whole and low-fat milk or adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms. This recipe is also highly adaptable, allowing for variations like adding spice or a gourmet touch with truffle oil. Remember, the key to perfecting this dish is to cook the bacon until crispy and roast the garlic until it’s golden and caramelized, as these steps add essential layers of flavor.