Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- 3 pounds potatoes
peeled and cubed, Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best
- 8 ounces cream cheese
softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
melted
- 1/2 cup milk
add more if needed for a creamier consistency
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- to tasteSalt and black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
divided
- 6-8 slices bacon
cooked until crispy and crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions
chopped
- 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
optional, for extra richness
Directions
- 1
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- 2
Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- 3
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash using a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth.
- 4
Add the cream cheese, sour cream, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until the potatoes are creamy and well combined.
- 5
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the chopped green onions. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- 6
Spread the mashed potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese (if using). Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top of the cheese layer.
- 7
Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, crispy top, broil for the last 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent the bacon from burning.
- 8
Remove from the oven and top with the remaining green onions. Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
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About this Recipe
Searching for that ultimate comfort food side dish to impress at your next gathering or simply elevate a weeknight meal? This Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole delivers on all fronts, transforming simple mashed potatoes into an irresistible, cheesy delight.
What truly makes this casserole shine is the luxurious blend of cream cheese, rich sour cream, and melted butter, creating an unparalleled creamy texture. Layered with sharp cheddar and crispy bacon, it's a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary and deeply satisfying.
Prepare for a symphony of textures and flavors. You'll encounter fluffy, perfectly seasoned mashed potatoes, generously studded with savory bacon and enveloped in a velvety cheese sauce. Each bite offers a satisfying creaminess, punctuated by sharp cheddar and the fresh crunch of green onions. This casserole is designed to be a standout side, comforting and indulgent, yet straightforward enough to prepare in about one hour total time.
While utterly delicious as is, this loaded mashed potato casserole welcomes your personal touch. For a different cheese profile, consider swapping some of the sharp cheddar for Monterey Jack or even a smoked gouda. If you're out of green onions, fresh chives make a fantastic alternative. For an even richer finish, the optional Parmesan cheese adds a depth that's truly special.
This hearty casserole, yielding 8 servings, is the ideal companion for roasts, grilled meats, or holiday feasts, guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it straight from the baking dish for a cozy, family-style presentation.