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The Ultimate Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

A close-up serving of baked mashed potato casserole topped with melted cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.

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Make this creamy, cheesy mashed potato casserole loaded with bacon and sour cream. It is the perfect indulgent side dish for holidays or family dinners.

Ingredients

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  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus 1/2 cup for topping
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. While the potatoes cook, warm the milk and butter in a small saucepan over low heat until the butter is melted. Do not boil.
  4. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the hot pot. Mash the potatoes thoroughly until smooth.
  5. Add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, remaining salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until everything is combined and creamy.
  6. Stir in the crumbled bacon into the potato mixture.
  7. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  8. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
  9. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
  10. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions.

Notes

  • You can prepare the mashed potato mixture up to one day ahead of time. Cover and refrigerate. Add about 10 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
  • For an extra crispy topping, mix the top layer of cheese with 1/4 cup of panko breadcrumbs before sprinkling over the casserole.
  • This recipe works well with leftover mashed potatoes, reducing the initial boiling time.

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