Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
If there’s one dish that always draws a crowd at the table, it’s Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with all the best toppings, this casserole is the kind of rich, bubbly side that turns even an ordinary dinner into something special. Whether you’re hosting a holiday or just craving something cozy, this dish promises everything you love about classic loaded potatoes—only better, because it’s baked together in a warm, golden casserole that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a handful of simple, honest ingredients to create a dish that’s so much more than the sum of its parts. Each element brings something important to the table, whether it’s creaminess, sharpness, or that irresistible smoky crunch. Here’s what you’ll need to make every bite unforgettable:
- Russet potatoes (3 pounds, peeled and cut into chunks): The perfect starchy potato for a fluffy, creamy base that soaks up all the rich flavors.
- Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons): Adds richness and a silky mouthfeel to the mashed potatoes.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Brings tang and extra creaminess, making the casserole luxuriously smooth.
- Whole milk (1/2 cup, warmed): Helps loosen and lighten the potatoes without watering them down.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses each bite with warm, subtle flavor—you won’t even miss fresh garlic!
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to make all the flavors pop.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For a gentle kick and a bit of balance.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided): Melts beautifully for gooey, cheesy pockets throughout and a golden topping.
- Bacon (6 slices, cooked and crumbled): Smoky, salty, and crispy—no loaded potato is complete without it!
- Chopped green onions (1/4 cup, plus extra for garnish): Lends freshness and a pop of color to each serving.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish and Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s perfectly hot when you’re ready to bake. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray—this ensures your casserole slides out easily and leaves behind every last cheesy bit for your guests to enjoy.
Step 2: Boil the Potatoes
Place your peeled and chunked russet potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then lower it to medium and let the potatoes cook for about 15 to 20 minutes. They’re done when a fork slides in easily—no resistance, just tender perfection. Drain well to keep your mash from turning watery.
Step 3: Mash and Mix
Return the hot potatoes to the pot. Add in the butter, sour cream, warmed milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until you reach your favorite consistency—smooth and creamy is the goal here, but a few rustic lumps are always welcome if that’s your style. Fold in 1 cup of cheddar cheese, most of the crumbled bacon (save a little for the topping), and the chopped green onions. The mixture should smell amazing already!
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the creamy mashed potato mixture into your prepared baking dish and smooth it out into an even layer. Sprinkle the top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and the bacon you set aside earlier. This layer will get perfectly melty and golden in the oven, making each bite extra irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Pop the casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and the whole dish is heated through. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is bubbly and lightly golden. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh green onions for color and a burst of flavor right before serving.
How to Serve Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle extra green onions across the top for a fresh, vibrant finish that cuts through all the richness. If you’re feeling adventurous, a little extra crispy bacon or even a dusting of smoked paprika can add both color and flavor. Every garnish is a chance to make this dish truly your own!
Side Dishes
Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is a natural match for hearty mains like roasted chicken, grilled steaks, or glazed ham. For a lighter contrast, serve it with a simple green salad or some garlicky steamed broccoli. It’s a side that goes with just about anything, making it a perfect addition to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For family-style dinners, serve straight from the casserole dish with a big spoon. For a fun twist at parties, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins or muffin tins and bake mini portions. You can even top each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chives for that classic baked potato vibe. The possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Simply cover the casserole tightly with foil or transfer to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days, and the flavors just keep getting better as they meld together.
Freezing
Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is freezer-friendly! Assemble the casserole (without baking), wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. For single servings, a quick zap in the microwave works perfectly. Add a splash of milk if it seems a little dry, and it’ll be as creamy as the day you made it.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Side Dish
Absolutely! While russets are classic for their fluffiness, Yukon Golds give a creamier, buttery texture. Just make sure to cook them until fork-tender for the best results.
Is it possible to make Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. When you’re ready to serve, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through and bubbly.
Can I swap out the cheese for something else?
Definitely! While cheddar is classic, feel free to use Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a mix for more depth. Each cheese brings its own character, so experiment to find your favorite blend.
What’s the best way to make it vegetarian?
Simply omit the bacon, and consider adding roasted mushrooms or sautéed onions for a savory boost. The casserole will still be every bit as creamy and satisfying.
How do I keep my casserole from drying out during baking?
Cover the dish with foil for the first 15 minutes if you’re worried about it drying out, then remove the foil for the last 10 minutes to let the cheese get bubbly and golden. A splash of extra milk before baking also helps keep things creamy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a side dish that steals the show, Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe is it. Every spoonful is warm, cheesy comfort, and it’s guaranteed to bring smiles to your table. Don’t wait for a special occasion—make it tonight, and watch it disappear!
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Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions, baked to perfection for a warm, cheesy, and savory side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, plus extra for garnish
- Nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain them thoroughly.
- Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add the unsalted butter, sour cream, warm whole milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mash everything together until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Mix in Cheese, Bacon, and Green Onions: Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, most of the crumbled bacon (save some for topping), and the chopped green onions, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and the reserved crumbled bacon over the top for an appetizing finish.
- Bake and Garnish: Bake the casserole for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese has melted and the dish is heated through. Once baked, garnish with additional chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
- This casserole can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated; just add 5 to 10 minutes to the baking time when reheating.
- For extra flavor variation, try mixing in other cheeses such as Monterey Jack or gouda.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 scoop
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
