Bacon-Cheese Swirled Potatoes

On Tuesday nights, DH and I are both at church until around 8:00. I don't usually get home in time to cook something before we leave, so when we get home I have to make something quick. Last night, I threw some pork chops on the George Foreman and whipped up some bacon-cheese swirled potatoes as a side dish. They were quick and delicious.

Just as a side note, I had never bought, or even thought about buying, boxed (aka instant) potatoes until a few weeks ago. DH loves mashed potatoes, but I would rather cook potatoes in a different manner (Italian style, baked, etc). Well, I got a pretty good deal on some Betty Crocker potatoes a few weeks ago, so I figured I would try out a new recipe. Mmm... These were delicious. Our dinner was $1.60 per person. Oh yeah, plus electricity :)

The cost breakdown is:
1-1/2 cups of water = $0.08
1 cup of milk = $0.15
1 pack of Betty Crocker potatoes = $0.22
1/4 cup of ranch dressing = $0.12
2 tbsp of bacon pieces = $0.16
2 tbsp of margarine = $0.04
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese = $0.25
Total cost = $1.38 for 4 servings or $0.35 per serving

Bacon-Cheese Swirled Potatoes
Combine 1-1/2 cups water, 1 cup milk, and 2 tbsp butter in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil. Then, remove from heat and stir in potato flakes. Next, add 1/4 cup of ranch dressing, 2 tbsp of bacon pieces, and 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Enjoy!