Step 1

Preheat the oven to 200C/180C fan forced. Arrange the potato gems on a large baking tray and bake for 20 minutes or until crisp. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2

Meanwhile, melt the butter in a 20cm (base measurement) ovenproof frying pan over medium heat. Add the flour and cook, stirring, for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk, stirring well after each addition until well combined, until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes. Add the cheddar and stir until melted.

Step 3

Arrange the potato gems over the cheese sauce in the pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until bubbling. Sprinkle with the bacon and chives to serve.