Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

When you’re craving comfort food that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor, this Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate dish. Perfect as a side for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks, this casserole takes classic mashed potatoes to a whole new level. Packed with melted cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy sour cream, each bite is a delightful explosion of flavor that’s hard to resist.

Mashed potatoes on their own are already a beloved comfort food, but when you load them up with savory toppings and bake them to golden perfection, they become absolutely irresistible. This casserole combines everything you love about a loaded baked potato and transforms it into a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s easy to prepare and impossible to forget.

The versatility of this dish makes it ideal for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re serving it alongside a roast for Thanksgiving dinner or as a comforting side on a chilly evening, this casserole always hits the spot. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dish that saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment.

Another reason to love this casserole is its endless customizability. You can switch up the toppings to include your favorite ingredients, like caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or even jalapeños for a spicy kick. No matter how you customize it, the base of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes provides the perfect canvas for your flavor creations.

Not only is this Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole easy to make, but it’s also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The combination of smooth potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese creates a harmony of textures and flavors that’s hard to beat. Plus, the casserole format means you can make a big batch and serve it up effortlessly.

If you’re looking to elevate your side dish game and wow your family and friends, this casserole is the perfect solution. It’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to leave everyone coming back for seconds. Get ready to experience mashed potatoes like never before!

Servings

Serves: 8-10

Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk (more if needed)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Casserole:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 1/3 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/2 cup parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for a crispy topping)

Instructions

Step 1: Boil and Mash the Potatoes

1. Boil Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, sour cream, and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. If the mixture is too thick, add more milk, a little at a time.

Step 2: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Mix in Add-Ins: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and half of the green onions into the mashed potatoes.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Spread the Mixture: Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
2. Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. For extra flavor, sprinkle parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs on top.

Step 4: Bake

1. Bake the Casserole: Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
2. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture if preferred.
• For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking.
• Make the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake. Simply add 5-10 minutes to the baking time.
• Add extra toppings like chopped chives, diced jalapeños, or crispy fried onions for variety.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Summary

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and bacon-filled delight that transforms classic mashed potatoes into an unforgettable side dish. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any family gathering, this easy-to-make casserole brings comfort food to a whole new level.