Cheesy Potato and Bacon Brown Betty

Name: Cheesy Potato and Bacon Brown Betty
Ingredients: 8 slices thick cut bacon, at room temperature; 3 pounds Idaho russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks; 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided; 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup minced chives; 1 cup coarsely grated cheddar cheese, divided; 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper; 4 slices good-quality white sandwich bread, crusts removed; 3 tablespoons melted butter; 1/4 teaspoon crumbled dried sage leaves; 1/4 teaspoon crumbled dried thyme leaves