If you have ever craved a dish that wraps you in a warm, cheesy hug, then this Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s that magical combination of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes bursting with savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and a delightful hint of garlic and onion. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a holiday spread, or just a cozy night in, this casserole will quickly become your go-to comfort food favorite. Every bite feels like a celebration of flavor and texture — soft, fluffy potatoes contrast perfectly with crisp, golden cheese on top. You’re about to discover why this recipe deserves a permanent spot on your recipe list.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but absolutely essential in crafting the rich, creamy, and indulgent layers that make the Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe so special. Each one brings something important to the table, from the velvety smoothness of cream cheese to the smoky punch of bacon.
- Russet potatoes: The ideal potato for mashing due to their high starch content, ensuring a fluffy texture.
- Sour cream: Adds tangy creaminess that beautifully balances the dish’s richness.
- Cream cheese, softened: Boosts the silky, luscious mouthfeel in every bite.
- Milk: Helps create the perfect, smooth consistency without thinning the potatoes.
- Unsalted butter, melted: Brings buttery richness and helps mellow flavors.
- Garlic powder: A subtle savory kick for depth and warmth.
- Onion powder: Adds another layer of mild savoriness without overpowering.
- Salt and pepper: To taste — essential for highlighting all the other flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the potatoes, delivering gooey, sharp creaminess.
- Cooked and crumbled bacon: For smoky, crunchy bursts that contrast with soft potatoes.
- Chopped green onions: Adds freshness and a hint of mild bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, umami-packed crust.
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping: Creates a beautifully golden, bubbling topping.
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Potatoes
Begin by peeling the russet potatoes to avoid any bitter skin. Cutting them into uniform chunks ensures even cooking, so every piece becomes perfectly tender. Boil the potatoes in salted water until they’re fork-tender, an essential step to guarantee that smooth texture we all crave in mashed potatoes. Drain them well to avoid soggy results.
Step 2: Mash and Mix the Base
Once the potatoes are drained, transfer them back to the pot or a big bowl. Adding softened cream cheese and melted butter while the potatoes are still warm allows them to melt into silky goodness. Then, stir in sour cream and milk to create that rich, creamy base. Season with garlic and onion powder plus salt and pepper — these spices bring the casserole to life with delicious depth.
Step 3: Fold in the Flavor Boosters
Now for the fun part: folding in the shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon crumbles, and bright green onions. This combo transforms simple mashed potatoes into something extraordinary, providing gooey cheese, smoky crunch, and fresh bursts of flavor all in one dish. Mix everything gently so the cheese melts just a little but doesn’t turn oily.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish and Add Toppings
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the potato mixture evenly inside. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top, followed by extra shredded cheddar cheese for that irresistible golden crust. This cheesy blanket promises a bubbly, crispy finish that completes the loaded mashed potatoes experience.
Step 5: Bake and Broil for Perfection
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the casserole is bubbling with melty cheese and the top has turned a gorgeous golden brown. For an extra crisp and flavorful crust, broil for 2 to 3 minutes at the end—just keep a close eye to prevent burning. The result? A beautifully textured, aromatic masterpiece that’s impossible to resist.
How to Serve Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish even further, garnish with fresh chopped green onions or chives right before serving. Not only do they add a pop of vibrant green, but their mild sharpness complements the creamy, cheesy potatoes perfectly. A sprinkle of crispy bacon bits on top also adds an inviting crunch and smoky aroma.
Side Dishes
This loaded casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of sides — think roasted vegetables, fresh green salads, or even a simple garlic bread if you want to keep things classic. For heartier meals, it’s the perfect accompanying dish for meatloaf, grilled chicken, or even holiday roasts. Its creamy texture and bold flavors balance a wide range of mains.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized touch at your dinner table. Alternatively, sprinkle on extra toppings after baking, like crumbled bacon or a drizzle of ranch dressing for an added flavor twist. Presentation makes every bite feel special and invites guests to dive in eagerly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the casserole completely before sealing to maintain the best texture and flavor for next-day enjoyment.
Freezing
Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully. Freeze in a tightly wrapped container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to ensure even reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. To revive that crispy cheesy top, broil for a minute or two at the end. You can also microwave individual portions but the oven method best preserves the delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute sour cream, cream cheese, butter, and milk with dairy-free alternatives like coconut or almond-based products. Keep in mind this will slightly change the taste but still yield a creamy, delicious casserole.
What if I don’t have russet potatoes? Can I use another type?
Russets are ideal because of their fluffiness when mashed, but Yukon Golds can also work nicely. They yield a creamier, slightly buttery texture though the casserole may be less fluffy.
Can I add other mix-ins besides bacon and cheese?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even chopped cooked ham. The Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe is very versatile and invites creativity.
How do I make this casserole ahead for a holiday?
Prepare the casserole fully but don’t bake it yet. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight. When ready, bake it as usual a bit longer to ensure it’s heated through evenly.
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, pre-shredded cheese works well and makes assembly quicker. Just be aware that pre-shredded cheeses sometimes contain anti-caking agents that may slightly affect meltiness.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe has a special way of turning simple ingredients into an extraordinary dish filled with heart and flavor. Whether it’s the centerpiece of your meal or a hearty side, its creamy, cheesy, and smoky goodness will bring smiles around the table. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved classic in your kitchen!
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Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish featuring fluffy mashed russet potatoes blended with sour cream, cream cheese, melted butter, and seasoned with garlic and onion powder. This hearty casserole is loaded with shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and fresh green onions, then baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly cheesy topping. Perfect as a side or main dish, it’s the ultimate comfort food for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds of russet potatoes
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix-ins
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Topping
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions
- Peel and cut potatoes: Start by peeling the russet potatoes using a vegetable peeler for quick and easy peeling. Cut the peeled potatoes into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches, to ensure even cooking.
- Boil the potatoes: Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain and prepare potatoes: Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate. Transfer the drained potatoes back into the pot or a large mixing bowl.
- Add creamy ingredients: Add the softened cream cheese and melted butter to the potatoes, allowing the warmth to help melt the cream cheese. Pour in the sour cream and milk for a creamy texture.
- Season the mixture: Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a good amount of salt and pepper. Start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, adjusting to taste.
- Mash the potatoes: Using a potato masher or hand mixer, mash the potatoes to your desired consistency.
- Fold in mix-ins: Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions into the mashed potatoes. Mix until well combined, allowing the heat from the potatoes to melt the cheese slightly.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Assemble casserole: Transfer the loaded mashed potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, followed by the additional shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden brown.
- Optional broil for crispiness: For a crispier top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
Notes
- Use russet potatoes for the best texture and fluffiness.
- If you prefer a creamier casserole, add a little extra milk or sour cream.
- Feel free to substitute cooked bacon with cooked sausage or omit for a vegetarian version.
- Make sure to watch closely during broiling to avoid burning the cheese topping.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated; bake just before serving for best results.
