Hearty Meat and Potato Dish (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Potato Base

01 - Russet potatoes (4 large, peeled and cubed)
02 - Sour cream (1/4 cup)
03 - Butter (2 tablespoons)
04 - Milk (1/4 cup)
05 - Salt (to taste)
06 - Black pepper (to taste)

→ Meat Filling

07 - Bacon (1/2 lb, chopped)
08 - Breakfast or Italian sausage (1/2 lb, crumbled)
09 - Small onion (1, finely chopped)

→ Cheese and Topping

10 - Cheddar cheese (1 cup, shredded)
11 - Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped)
12 - Breadcrumbs (1/2 cup, optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Peel and cube the russet potatoes. Boil in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
02 - In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove bacon, leaving grease in the pan. Add crumbled sausage and finely chopped onion. Cook until sausage is browned and onion is softened.
03 - Drain cooked potatoes and return to pot. Add butter, milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
04 - Fold in most of the crispy bacon and cooked sausage mixture, reserving some for topping. Mix in half the shredded cheddar cheese.
05 - Transfer the potato mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with remaining cheese, bacon, and sausage. Sprinkle breadcrumbs if using.
06 - Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
07 - Remove from oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Let cool slightly before serving.

# Notes:

01 - Can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving
02 - Great as a main dish or hearty side
03 - Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated