Ingredients and Weight:
- Potatoes: 500 grams (about 2 large potatoes)
- Cheddar Cheese: 100 grams (shredded or cubed)
- Bacon Bits: 50 grams
- Ranch Seasoning: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 50 grams
- Salt: 1 teaspoon (adjust according to taste)
- Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (freshly ground)
- Milk or Cream: 1 cup
Preparation Time: 45 minutes (includes preparation and cooking time)
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty Level: Level 3 (Moderate)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Peel and wash the potatoes. Cut into uniform chunks for even cooking.
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender but not falling apart.
- Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained potatoes with butter, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth.
- Stir in the milk or cream, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning until well combined.
- Fold in the bacon bits gently to ensure even distribution.
- Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
- Serve immediately with a sprinkle of extra bacon bits and ranch seasoning if desired.
Nutritional Information: (per serving, assuming 8 total servings)
Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving (depending on ingredients used)
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 8g
Dish Characteristics:
- A hearty and flavorful dish with a combination of creamy potatoes, salty bacon, and cheesy cheddar.
- The ranch seasoning adds a unique flavor that is popular among American palates.
- The dish is both comforting and satisfying, making it a great side dish for any meal.
User Comments:
- "This dish was amazing! The combination of flavors was spot on, and the potatoes were so creamy and delicious."
- "I loved the crunchy top layer paired with the creamy inside of the potatoes. The bacon and cheddar added a perfect salty-cheesy taste."
- "The ranch seasoning really made this dish stand out. It was a unique flavor combination that I will definitely make again."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- Use fresh potatoes for best results. Avoid using canned or pre-cooked potatoes for this recipe.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preference. Start with the recommended amount and add more if needed.
- If you want to make this dish vegetarian, you can omit the bacon bits or use vegan bacon bits instead.
