This loaded mashed potato casserole is a comfort food dream come true!
Imagine the creamiest, dreamiest mashed potatoes sprinkled with your favorite baked potato toppings. I’m talking sharp cheddar, crumbly bacon, and even green onions.
It’s impossible to resist, and everyone will beg for the recipe!
Incredibly cozy and delightfully indulgent, nobody can resist a helping or two!
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
Comfort Food: Every bite is like a loaded baked potato brought to life in cozy casserole form.
Crowd-Pleaser: For family dinners, holiday feasts, or potlucks, this dish is bound to steal the spotlight!
Versatile: From roasted turkey to baked tilapia, this casserole is a versatile addition to any meal. Serve as a side or even the main event!
Make-Ahead Magic: Save time and reduce stress by making this dish in advance. Prep and chill, then bake the next day.
Ingredients
- Russet or Yukon Gold Potatoes: Starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold will deliver the fluffiest, smoothest texture.
- Cream Cheese: The secret to an ultra-creamy texture and irresistible flavor.
- Sour Cream: It adds a slightly tangy flavor and creamy texture.
- Unsalted Butter: It adds richness to the mash. Use unsalted and salt to taste for the best results.
- Milk: It thins the potato mixture for a fluffier consistency.
- Seasonings: A sprinkle of garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper enhances the flavors.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: It adds a bold, tangy flavor and melty top layer.
- Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle it on top for extra richness.
- Bacon: Crispy, salty bacon is a must! It adds extra texture and flavor, taking the casserole up a notch.
- Green Onions: They add a fresh, mild onion flavor that wonderfully contrasts the rich, creamy potatoes.
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
This dish is easy to throw together and tastes amazing!
1. Preheat. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Boil the potatoes. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender.
3. Drain the potatoes. Then, mash until smooth.
4. Mix. Mix the cream cheese, sour cream, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the fixins. Add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the chopped green onions. Stir until combined.
6. Spread the mixture. Spread the mashed potato mixture into the baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese (if using), and the remaining bacon.
7. Bake. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes. For a crispy top, broil for the last 3-5 minutes.
8. Garnish. Sprinkle the remaining green onions on top. Serve warm.
Tips for the Best Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
This dish hits all the right comfort food notes and serves a crowd. Before you start, be sure to follow these tips:
- Starchy is best. Starchy potatoes yield the best mashed potatoes. For light and fluffy, choose Russet. For creamy and buttery, opt for Yukon Gold.
- Keep things even. Cut the potatoes into uniform cubes to ensure they cook at the same rate and become fork-tender.
- Mash while hot. Mash the potatoes while still hot to prevent them from becoming gummy or lumpy.
- Adjust the consistency. Add more milk as needed for a creamier consistency, especially if the potatoes seem too thick after mashing.
- Spice it up. For a spicy twist, top with jalapeños or mix a pinch of cayenne into the mash.
- Try tasty add-ins. Try adding other cheeses like mozzarella or gouda. For extra crunch, top with crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs before baking.
How to Store
It rarely ever happens, but I love it when there are leftovers! They store and reheat well for another meal later in the week.
To Store: Place leftovers in an air-tight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To Freeze: Transfer the cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container or wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
To Reheat: Place the casserole (covered with foil) in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated through. For individual portions, reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
8
servings30
minutes30
minutes529
kcalThis loaded mashed potato casserole is easy, cheesy, and delicious! It’s packed with mashed potatoes, cream cheese, bacon, and more!
Ingredients
3 pounds potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best), peeled and cubed
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup milk (add more if needed for a creamier consistency)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
6-8 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash using a potato masher or hand mixer until smooth.
- Add the cream cheese, sour cream, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until the potatoes are creamy and well combined.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the chopped green onions. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Spread the mashed potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese (if using). Sprinkle the remaining bacon on top of the cheese layer.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For a golden, crispy top, broil for the last 3-5 minutes, watching carefully to prevent the bacon from burning.
- Remove from the oven and top with the remaining green onions. Let sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
