If you’re craving a dish that wraps you up in a warm, cheesy hug, look no further than Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe. This casserole brings together creamy mashed potatoes with savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and a delightful mix of spices and cheeses, creating an irresistible side or even a hearty main. It’s a perfect choice for cozy dinners, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want that pure comfort food fix that never disappoints.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but they work harmoniously to deliver an indulgently rich, flavorful, and textured casserole. Each one plays a vital role, from the velvety potatoes and creamy cheeses to the smoky bacon and zesty green onions.
- 2 pounds of russet potatoes: The classic choice for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes that absorb every delicious addition.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy creaminess that deepens the casserole’s flavor.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Brings a silky texture and subtle richness when melted into the potatoes.
- 1/2 cup milk: Keeps the mashed potatoes smooth and luscious without being too heavy.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: Enhances flavor and gives a luxurious mouthfeel.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: A gentle punch of savory depth that blends effortlessly.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: A hint of sweetness and earthiness that rounds out the spices.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the potatoes adding sharpness and gooeyness.
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon: Brings smoky, crispy bits that add a delightful contrast.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions: Offers freshness and a mild bite to brighten the dish.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, golden crust when baked.
- 1/2 cup additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping: Creates a bubbly, savory topping that invites everyone to dig in.
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Begin by peeling your russet potatoes with a vegetable peeler for quick and easy prep. Cutting the potatoes into 1 to 2-inch chunks guarantees they cook evenly and become perfectly tender. Place them in a large pot with cold water and add a generous pinch of salt to flavor the potatoes from the inside out.
Step 2: Cook and Drain
Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Draining them well ensures the mash won’t be watery, so let them sit briefly to let excess moisture evaporate.
Step 3: Mash and Mix
Return the potatoes to your pot or a mixing bowl. Add softened cream cheese and melted butter—the warmth helps the cream cheese meld beautifully into the potatoes. Stir in sour cream and milk for that signature creamy texture. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, then mash everything to your preferred consistency using a potato masher or hand mixer.
Step 4: Fold in the Flavor Bombs
Gently fold shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and chopped green onions into the mashed potatoes. The heat from the potatoes will start melting the cheese, marrying all the flavors into a joyful mix. Taste and tweak seasoning as needed—it should be just right to satisfy every craving.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the mashed potato mixture evenly inside. Evenly sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese and then the additional cheddar on top, ensuring every bite will have a cheesy golden crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and lightly browned. If you want a crispier top, broil for 2-3 minutes with close attention—you’ll get a beautifully caramelized finish that’s impossible to resist.
How to Serve Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes take this casserole from great to unforgettable. Sprinkle extra chopped green onions or finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives right before serving. A dollop of sour cream on top can add an additional creamy tang that complements the smoky bacon perfectly.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines as a star but pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains and sides. Think grilled chicken or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate, or a crisp salad that refreshes the palate. Pulled pork or meatloaf can also be fantastic companions, making the meal hearty, satisfying, and oh-so-comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and bacon for personalized portions. Or layer it in a trifle dish alternating with steamed veggies for a loaded mashed potato parfait. These ideas add flair without sacrificing the comfort that makes this recipe so beloved.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, transfer your leftovers to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors will meld even more, making reheated bites taste just as delightful as fresh.
Freezing
Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe freezes beautifully! Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, removing it towards the end to revive that golden crust. You can also microwave portions covered loosely with a microwave-safe lid for quicker reheating, stirring halfway to heat evenly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato?
While russet potatoes give the best fluffy texture for this recipe, you can use Yukon Golds for a creamier, buttery mash. Avoid waxy potatoes as they won’t mash as smoothly.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or roasted vegetables to keep it flavorful yet vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute sour cream and cream cheese with dairy-free alternatives, and use plant-based milk and vegan cheese to achieve a similar creamy and cheesy effect.
How spicy is this dish?
This casserole is mild and perfect for all tastes, but you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mashed potatoes for a bit of a kick.
Why is my casserole watery after baking?
To avoid watery casserole, make sure to drain potatoes thoroughly before mashing and avoid adding too much milk. Also, letting the potatoes sit to evaporate excess moisture helps maintain a perfect consistency.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something truly magical about Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe that turns any meal into a celebration of cozy flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a festive occasion, this casserole is sure to become one of your go-to favorites. I can’t recommend enough that you give this recipe a try—your taste buds will thank you!
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Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, featuring creamy mashed russet potatoes blended with sour cream, cream cheese, and butter, then mixed with cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions. Topped with Parmesan and extra cheddar cheese, baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly crust, it’s a hearty, flavorful side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 2 pounds russet potatoes
Dairy & Dairy Alternatives
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Meat
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
Seasonings and Vegetables
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Peeling Potatoes: Start by peeling the russet potatoes using a vegetable peeler for quick and easy peeling.
- Cut Potatoes: Cut the peeled potatoes into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches, to ensure even cooking.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Drain Potatoes: Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate.
- Return Potatoes: Transfer the drained potatoes back to the pot or a large mixing bowl.
- Add Cream Cheese and Butter: Add softened cream cheese and melted butter to the potatoes, allowing the heat to help melt the cream cheese.
- Add Sour Cream and Milk: Pour in sour cream and milk to achieve a creamy texture.
- Season: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt (about 1 teaspoon), and pepper (about 1/2 teaspoon). Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Mash Potatoes: Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash the potatoes to desired consistency.
- Fold in Add-ins: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions until well combined, allowing residual heat to slightly melt the cheese.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
- Transfer Mixture: Spread the loaded mashed potato mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, then add the additional shredded cheddar cheese.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and top is lightly golden.
- Broil for Crispiness: For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Notes
- To ensure even cooking, cut potatoes into uniform chunks.
- Softened cream cheese mixes better and creates a creamier texture.
- You can substitute bacon with cooked ham or omit it for a vegetarian version.
- Use fresh garlic and onion for a more pronounced flavor if preferred.
- To save time, potatoes can be cooked in an Instant Pot if desired, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
- Broiling at the end is optional but adds a delightful crispy cheese crust.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
