Description
A comforting and flavorful Loaded Baked Potato Casserole featuring creamy mashed potatoes mixed with butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and milk, then layered with sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and topped with fresh green onions. Perfect for a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 6 large russet potatoes
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese and Toppings
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 1 1/2 cups bacon, cooked and crumbled (divided as 1 cup for inside mixture and 1/2 cup for topping)
- 1/4 cup green onions, diced
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Boil Potatoes: Wash, peel, and dice the russet potatoes into even pieces. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash and Mix: Drain the potatoes well and return them to the empty pot. Gently fold in the unsalted butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and milk until creamy and smooth.
- Season and Add Fillings: Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of crumbled cooked bacon, mixing gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the potato mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup crumbled bacon over the top to create a deliciously cheesy and crispy crust.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle the diced green onions on top for a fresh, mild onion flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- Russet potatoes are best for a fluffy, mashed texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper based on your preference and the saltiness of your bacon and cheese.
- For extra crisp bacon topping, you can broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after baking, but watch carefully to prevent burning.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked before serving for convenience.
