Dutch Oven Potatoes

A rich and comforting side dish, these Dutch Oven Potatoes feature layers of thinly sliced potatoes, caramelized onions, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, all baked to golden perfection in a Dutch oven. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this dish is perfect for family meals, holiday feasts, or as a hearty side for corned beef and cabbage.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy One-Pot Dish – Everything bakes together in the Dutch oven for easy prep and cleanup.
• Rich and Creamy – Heavy cream and melted cheese make this dish decadently creamy.
• Perfectly Layered Flavor – Bacon, onions, and smoked paprika add a deep, savory taste.
• Great for Any Occasion – Whether for St. Patrick’s Day, a holiday dinner, or a weeknight side, these potatoes are always a hit.
• Crispy & Cheesy – Baking uncovered at the end creates a crispy cheese topping.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 3 lbs russet potatoes, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, then crumble it and set aside.
3. Thinly slice the potatoes and onions for even layers.

Layer the Potatoes:

4. Grease the bottom of a Dutch oven with butter.
5. Layer potatoes, onions, bacon, and cheese, repeating layers until all ingredients are used.

Add Cream and Seasoning:

6. Pour the heavy cream evenly over the layers.
7. Sprinkle with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

Bake the Potatoes:

8. Cover and bake for 45 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
9. Remove the lid, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 15 more minutes, until golden and bubbly.

Serve and Enjoy:

10. Let the potatoes cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a side dish to corned beef, roasts, or grilled meats.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Variations

• Herb & Garlic Twist – Add fresh thyme or rosemary for extra aroma.
• Loaded Potato Bake – Top with sour cream, green onions, and extra bacon after baking.
• Creamy Ranch Flavor – Mix ranch seasoning into the cream for a tangy twist.
• Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
• Different Cheese Options – Try Gruyère, mozzarella, or pepper jack instead of cheddar.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes! Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well, but russet potatoes create the creamiest texture.

Why are my potatoes not soft enough?

Make sure to slice them thinly and evenly. Also, covering the Dutch oven while baking helps them cook faster.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate it uncooked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

How do I get a crispy topping?

Remove the lid for the last 15 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to brown.

Can I add protein to make it a full meal?

Yes! Try adding shredded chicken, cooked sausage, or ham between the layers.

Can I make this without bacon?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

What can I serve with these Dutch oven potatoes?

They pair perfectly with corned beef and cabbage, roasted meats, or grilled steak.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

Peeling is optional! Leaving the skins on adds texture and extra nutrients.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the dish will be less rich. Whole milk or half-and-half are good alternatives.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Covering the dish during baking prevents cheese from burning. Only remove the lid in the final 15 minutes for a golden top.

Conclusion

These Dutch Oven Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and layered with savory bacon and onions. Whether served as a holiday side dish or paired with corned beef and cabbage, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser. Rich, indulgent, and easy to make, it’s the perfect way to elevate any meal!