Are you craving a mouthwatering side dish that will steal the show at your next dinner gathering? Look no further than the Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake! This scrumptious recipe combines the crispy, savory goodness of bacon with the creamy, indulgent flavors of ranch dressing, all nestled between perfectly sliced russet potatoes. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, a holiday feast, or simply looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!
In this article, we’ll dive into the details of how to make this delicious and easy-to-make cheesy bacon ranch hasselback potato bake. From step-by-step instructions to tips and tricks for perfecting your dish, we’ve got everything you need to make this a standout part of your next meal.
Why You’ll Love Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
Let’s face it—potatoes are the unsung heroes of comfort food. They’re versatile, easy to cook, and have an incredible ability to absorb rich, savory flavors. In this Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake, the russet potatoes are sliced thinly, so each piece crisps up perfectly while still maintaining a fluffy interior. The combination of mozzarella cheese, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing makes for a dish that’s both decadent and satisfying.
This recipe is a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness, with a touch of smokiness from the bacon and a refreshing kick from the ranch dressing. It’s a great choice for a variety of occasions: family dinners, holiday feasts, barbecues, or even as a delicious appetizer.
Ingredients for Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
Before you begin, it’s important to gather the following ingredients for this dish:
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4 large russet potatoes
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4 tbsp butter, melted
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
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¼ cup ranch dressing
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2 tbsp chopped chives
These ingredients come together to create a perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and creamy flavors. Plus, they’re easy to find in most grocery stores!
Ingredient Substitutions
If you’re looking to make this recipe with a few adjustments or substitutions, here are some options:
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Dairy-Free: Swap the butter for a dairy-free alternative, and use a plant-based cheese to keep the dish dairy-free.
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Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check that your ranch dressing and other ingredients are gluten-free if you have dietary concerns.
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Vegetarian: Simply omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version of this dish. You can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for additional flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
Now that we’ve got all our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the preparation steps to create this ultimate cheesy bacon ranch hasselback potato bake!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your potatoes will cook evenly and achieve that crispy texture.
Step 2: Slice the Potatoes
Take each russet potato and make thin slices, stopping before cutting all the way through. The slices should be about 1/8 inch thick. If you need some help with this step, use two chopsticks or wooden spoons on either side of the potato to prevent slicing all the way through. The idea is to create a fan effect, where the potato holds together but is sliced just enough to allow for the flavors to penetrate.
Step 3: Brush & Bake
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a pastry brush to coat the top of each potato with the butter mixture, making sure to get some in between the slices too. The butter will help the potatoes crisp up while also infusing them with flavor.
Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake them in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. During this time, the potatoes will begin to soften, and the edges will start to crisp up.
Step 4: Add Cheese & Bacon
After 45 minutes of baking, remove the potatoes from the oven. Carefully stuff the shredded mozzarella cheese and crumbled bacon between the slices of each potato. Be generous with the cheese and bacon; this is where the magic happens! The cheese will melt into the potatoes, creating a gooey, cheesy center, while the bacon adds a savory crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted and the bacon is crisp.
Step 5: Drizzle Ranch & Serve
Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and drizzle with ranch dressing. The ranch adds a cool, creamy finish that complements the rich flavors of the cheese and bacon. Finally, garnish the potatoes with chopped chives for a burst of freshness and color.
Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the cheesy, bacon-filled goodness!
Tips for Perfecting Your Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
To ensure your Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
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Even Slicing: To achieve uniform slices, consider using a sharp knife or even a mandolin slicer if you have one. This ensures that the potatoes bake evenly and the cheese can melt in between each slice.
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Crispy Bacon: For the best results, use crispy bacon. Not only does it add texture, but it also delivers that satisfying crunch when you bite into the potatoes.
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Add More Toppings: You can customize the toppings to your liking. Try adding sour cream, green onions, or even a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
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Make Ahead: If you’re preparing this dish for a dinner party or event, you can slice the potatoes and assemble everything up to the point of baking. Just cover the potatoes with foil and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake them.
Why This Recipe Works
There’s a reason Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake is so popular. The layers of mozzarella cheese and crispy bacon create a combination of textures and flavors that simply can’t be beaten. When you bite into each slice of potato, the crunchy exterior gives way to the soft, fluffy interior, while the melted cheese and bacon infuse every bite with rich flavor. Plus, the ranch dressing adds a refreshing, creamy element that ties everything together perfectly.
This dish is so versatile—serve it as a side with your favorite protein, or enjoy it as the main event for a hearty, filling meal.
Nutritional Information for Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
Each serving of this Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake (based on 4 servings) contains approximately:
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Calories: 350
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Fat: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 32g
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Protein: 10g
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Fiber: 4g
While this dish is indulgent, it’s still a great option for those craving comfort food with a touch of savory goodness. Pair it with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a balanced meal.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you loved this Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake, you might enjoy these other delicious recipes:
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One Pot Chili Mac and Cheese: A hearty, cheesy dish that combines the flavors of chili and mac and cheese into one pot of comfort.
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Loaded Bacon Ranch Cheese Fry Casserole: A cheesy, loaded potato casserole with crispy bacon and a ranch dressing twist.
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Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Sausage: A one-pan meal that combines the richness of cheese and sausage with the freshness of ranch-seasoned potatoes.
FAQs for Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake
1. Can I make the Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and assemble the ingredients up to the point of baking. Cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.
2. Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese in this recipe?
Yes! You can swap the mozzarella cheese for cheddar cheese, gouda, or any other cheese that melts well. Just be sure to adjust the amount based on your preference.
3. How do I prevent the potatoes from falling apart while slicing them?
To prevent the potatoes from falling apart, place them between two chopsticks or the edges of a wooden spoon. This will help guide your knife to make even slices without cutting all the way through.
4. Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe?
While russet potatoes are the best choice for this recipe due to their texture, you can use Yukon gold or red potatoes. However, keep in mind that they may cook slightly differently and won’t have the same fluffy interior as russets.
Conclusion
The Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves potatoes, cheese, and bacon. With its simple ingredients, easy-to-follow steps, and delightful combination of flavors, this dish is sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re looking for a side dish that will impress your guests or a comforting meal for your family, this recipe is the perfect choice.
So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and prepare yourself for the ultimate cheesy, bacon-filled potato bake!
Print
Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake: Easy & Delicious
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake is a crowd-pleasing comfort dish packed with crispy edges, melty cheese, savory bacon, and a creamy ranch drizzle. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings!
Ingredients
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4 large russet potatoes
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4 tbsp butter, melted
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1 tsp garlic powder
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp black pepper
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1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
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¼ cup ranch dressing
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2 tbsp chopped chives
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Slice each potato thinly, being careful not to cut all the way through.
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Mix melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush over the sliced potatoes.
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Bake the potatoes for 45 minutes until tender and crispy around the edges.
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Carefully stuff cheese and bacon between the potato slices.
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Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese melts.
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Drizzle with ranch dressing and sprinkle with chopped chives before serving.
Notes
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For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions.
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Feel free to swap mozzarella for cheddar or your favorite melty cheese.
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To make slicing easier, place each potato between two chopsticks to prevent cutting all the way through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 potato
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Cheesy Bacon Ranch Hasselback Potato Bake, baked potatoes, ranch potato recipe