Description
This Loaded Baked Potato Casserole combines the creamy, comforting flavors of mashed potatoes with savory bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions. Perfect for a hearty side or a satisfying main, this dish brings together the best elements of a baked potato in a warm, cheesy casserole that is sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
Dairy and Seasonings
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare it for baking the casserole.
- Boil the potatoes: Place the diced potatoes in a pot of boiling water and cook them until they are fork-tender, which should take about 15 minutes.
- Drain and return potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot for mashing.
- Mash with dairy and seasonings: Add the sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the potatoes and mash until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Mix in cheese, bacon, and onions: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions evenly into the mashed potatoes.
- Transfer to baking dish: Spread the potato mixture evenly into a prepared baking dish.
- Add toppings: If desired, sprinkle additional cheese and bacon on top of the casserole for extra flavor and texture.
- Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
Notes
- For a healthier alternative, use low-fat sour cream and reduced-fat cheese.
- You can substitute bacon with vegetarian bacon to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
- Green onions can be replaced with chives for a milder onion flavor.
- To make the casserole extra creamy, add a bit more milk or sour cream when mashing.
- This casserole pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
