Skillet Potatoes and Peas Au Gratin

This is a wonderful veggie side dish, the recipe can easily be doubled if desired to serve more than 4 people. This complete recipe is made in a skillet on top of the stove. This is just delicious! Prep time includes cooking the potatoes.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 7  slices bacon, diced
• 1  onion, chopped
• 1  tablespoon  fresh minced garlic (optional)
• 5  cups potatoes, peeled, COOKED and sliced
•  salt and pepper
• 1 (10 ounce) package  frozen peas, cooked only for a couple of minutes, and drained
• 3  cups sharp cheddar cheese
• 1⁄2 cup mayonnaise (Use mayo not salad dressing, Hellman's is good)
• 1⁄2 cup half-and-half cream
• 1⁄4 cup  grated parmesan cheese (option)

Directions

1. In a skillet, cook bacon until crisp; remove with a slotted spoon to paper towel.
2. Drain some of the bacon fat if desied, but leave some of the bacon fat in the pan.
3. In the bacon drippings, saute onion and garlic (if using) until tender (about 3 minutes) and leave in the pan.
4. In the skillet, layer the sliced cooked potatoes over the onions, season potatoes with salt and pepper.
5. Top with peas, then sprinkle about 1-1/2 cups cheese over peas, then the bacon.
6. Cover and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until just heated through.
7. In a bowl, combine mayo and half and half until smooth; pour over bacon in the pan.
8. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using) then remaining 1-1/2 cups grated cheese.
9. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.