Steakhouse Bacon-Style (Turkey) Potato Bake

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the satisfying texture of potatoes, look no further than this Steakhouse Bacon-Style (Turkey) Potato Bake. It’s a family-friendly casserole that elevates everyday ingredients into a rich, flavorful meal. Using turkey bacon for a lighter twist, this dish layers thinly sliced russet potatoes with a creamy, cheesy sauce and a hint of savory seasoning. Whether you’re serving it as a side at your next dinner party or making it the star of a cozy weeknight dinner, this potato bake is sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe hits all the right notes: creamy, cheesy, smoky, and perfectly seasoned. The thinly sliced russet potatoes cook evenly, soaking up the flavorful beef broth and sour cream mixture, ensuring every bite is tender and luscious. Turkey bacon adds that classic steakhouse crunch and smokiness without overpowering the dish. Plus, it’s layered with plenty of cheddar cheese for melty goodness and topped with fresh green onions for a pop of color and flavor. The seasoning blend of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper keeps the taste balanced and familiar, making it appeal to a wide range of palates. It’s a foolproof way to bring the indulgence of a steakhouse side right into your kitchen.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and sliced thinly – The starchiest potato variety works best for a creamy, fluffy texture.
• 1 pound turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled – Provides smoky flavor with a lighter touch than traditional bacon.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar enhances the richness and melts beautifully.
• 1 cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess to the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Gives a subtle, aromatic punch.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth to the flavor profile without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Offers a mild heat.
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped – Adds freshness and a gentle bite on top.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sauté and adds subtle richness.
• 1/2 cup beef broth – Infuses the potatoes with savory depth.

Cook’s Kit

• Sharp knife or mandoline slicer: For thin, even potato slices.
• Large skillet: To cook and crumble the turkey bacon.
• Mixing bowl: To combine the sour cream, cheese, and seasoning.
• 9×13 inch baking dish: Perfect size to layer and bake the casserole.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the dish during baking and keep moisture in.
• Oven mitts: For safe handling of hot dishes.

Steakhouse Bacon-Style (Turkey) Potato Bake: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel the russet potatoes and slice them thinly, about 1/8 inch thick. Using a mandoline slicer will make this easier and ensure even cooking. Once sliced, set them aside in a bowl of cold water to prevent browning while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the turkey bacon strips and cook until crispy, turning occasionally. Once cooked, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese (reserve a small handful for topping), garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly mixed.

Step 4: Layer the Potato Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Drain and pat dry the potato slices. Lightly grease your baking dish with olive oil. Start with a single layer of potato slices, slightly overlapping. Sprinkle some of the crumbled turkey bacon over the potatoes, then spoon a portion of the sour cream mixture evenly on top. Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of potatoes. Pour the beef broth evenly over the top to add moisture during baking.

Step 5: Bake and Add Final Touches

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese and chopped green onions on top, then bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Allow the potato bake to cool for 5 minutes before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or alongside a fresh salad. For a fun twist, serve it with a side of Bacon Broccoli Slaw to add crunch and freshness.

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

• Add fresh thyme or rosemary sprigs between layers for an herbaceous note during the fall and winter months.
• Mix in roasted garlic cloves for an extra depth of flavor when entertaining guests.
• Top with crispy fried shallots in spring for an added texture contrast.
• For a festive holiday version, incorporate a handful of dried cranberries or sweet roasted butternut squash cubes in the layers.
• Serve alongside a protein like Maple Chipotle Turkey Meatloaf for a complete and cozy meal.

Things That Go Wrong

• Potatoes not cooking through: This usually happens if the slices are too thick or the dish isn’t covered during baking. Make sure your slices are thin and cover the dish to trap steam.
• Dish too watery: Using too much broth or not draining the potatoes well can lead to a watery bake. Drain potatoes thoroughly and measure broth carefully.
• Turkey bacon not crispy: If the bacon is undercooked, it will be chewy rather than crisp. Cook it until nice and crispy before crumbling.
• Cheese not melting: Using pre-shredded cheese with additives can prevent smooth melting. For best results, shred your cheese fresh.

Storage Pro Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to maintain moisture, or microwave individual portions until warmed through.
• If freezing, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reader Questions

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish. Just be sure to slice them thinly and adjust baking time as needed, since they may cook slightly faster than russets.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to turkey bacon in this recipe?

You can substitute turkey bacon with a plant-based bacon alternative or smoked tempeh for a similar smoky flavor. Just cook and crumble as you would with turkey bacon.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the potato bake a day in advance, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature for 20 minutes before placing it in the oven.

What can I serve with this potato bake for a complete meal?

This dish pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, steamed vegetables, or a fresh green salad. For inspiration, try pairing it with the Parmesan And Rosemary Potato Stacks as a complementary side or enjoy it alongside a protein like the Maple Chipotle Turkey Meatloaf.

Reader Favorites

• Parmesan And Rosemary Potato Stacks – A crispy, cheesy alternative potato side that’s perfect for special occasions.
• Maple Chipotle Turkey Meatloaf – A sweet and smoky meatloaf that pairs beautifully with the potato bake.
• Bacon Broccoli Slaw – A crunchy, tangy slaw that adds freshness to any meal.

Hungry for More?

If you love hearty casseroles and creative potato dishes, keep exploring new recipes that bring warmth and flavor to your table. From cheesy bakes to crisp stacks and wholesome meatloafs, there’s always a delicious way to enjoy the humble potato. Dive into our collection for more inspiration and elevate your weeknight dinners with ease.

This Steakhouse Bacon-Style (Turkey) Potato Bake delivers that perfect blend of comfort and flavor, making it a must-try for anyone looking to impress without fuss. Ready to get baking? Your next favorite dinner is just a few steps away!

Share on Pinterest