When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a warm, creamy, and cheesy loaded mashed potato bake. Perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or even a cozy weekend meal, this dish brings together the rich flavors of mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and fresh green onions. Whether you’re looking to elevate your usual mashed potatoes or need a satisfying side dish that everyone will rave about, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The beauty of a loaded mashed potato bake lies in its versatility. You can customize the toppings to your heart’s content—add more cheese for an extra gooey texture or throw in some jalapeños for a spicy kick. Plus, it’s an excellent way to repurpose leftover mashed potatoes, giving them a second life as a decadent side dish.
This dish also pairs beautifully with almost any main course, from roasted chicken to grilled steak. Its creamy texture and indulgent toppings make it a perfect complement to both meaty and vegetarian entrées. Not to mention, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and pop into the oven when you’re ready to serve, making it a lifesaver for busy cooks.
If you’re hosting a gathering or bringing a dish to a potluck, a loaded mashed potato bake is always a hit. It’s hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest of guests and can be easily doubled or halved depending on your crowd size. Plus, who can resist the combination of crispy bacon and melted cheese over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes?
Ready to create the ultimate comfort food that’s bound to become a family favorite? Let’s dive into the recipe and get started!
Servings:
8 servings
Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- ½ cup milk (adjust for creaminess)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
-
Boil the Potatoes:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for 12-15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot. -
Mash and Mix:
Mash the potatoes until smooth. Add butter, sour cream, milk, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. -
Assemble the Bake:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mashed potatoes to a greased baking dish. Spread evenly and top with the remaining cheese and crumbled bacon. -
Bake to Perfection:
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Garnish and Serve:
Remove from the oven and sprinkle sliced green onions on top. Serve immediately and enjoy!
