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Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Few dishes bring comfort to the table quite like a warm, creamy Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole. Packed with fluffy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheese, and savory seasonings, this crowd-pleasing casserole combines all the flavors of a loaded baked potato in one easy-to-serve dish. Whether you’re preparing a holiday feast, a family dinner, or a potluck favorite, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. It can be made ahead of time, feeds a crowd, and pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled chicken, or holiday favorites. The combination of smooth potatoes, smoky bacon, gooey cheese, and fresh green onions creates a delicious balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes

3 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
4 tablespoons butter
1 cup sour cream
½ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Toppings

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons melted butter

Equipment Needed

Large pot
Potato masher or hand mixer
Mixing bowl
9×13-inch baking dish
Aluminum foil

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash, peel, and cut the potatoes into evenly sized cubes. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt.

Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and cook the potatoes for 15 to 20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

Step 2: Drain and Mash

Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the warm pot. Allow them to sit for 1 to 2 minutes so excess moisture can evaporate.

Add the butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. For extra fluffy potatoes, use a hand mixer on low speed.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Add the Mix-Ins

Reserve a small amount of bacon, cheese, and green onions for the top of the casserole.

Fold half of the shredded cheddar cheese, most of the crumbled bacon, and half of the green onions into the mashed potatoes. Stir gently until evenly distributed.