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Loaded Baked Potato Casserole Recipe Easy Comforting Cheddar Bacon Dinner

loaded baked potato casserole - featured image

A comforting casserole packed with creamy potatoes, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon, perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 pounds / 900 g), peeled and diced
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (about 8 ounces / 225 g)
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1 cup full-fat sour cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place diced russet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy. Drain well and return to the pot.
  3. While potatoes cook, fry bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy (about 8 minutes). Transfer to paper towels to drain, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Add melted butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the drained potatoes. Mash with a potato masher or beat lightly with a hand mixer for 2-3 minutes until creamy but still a bit chunky. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  5. Fold in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar, chopped bacon (reserve some for topping), and sliced green onions into the mashed potatoes.
  6. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar and reserved bacon over the top.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown.
  8. Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

If the top browns too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving for best texture. You can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option or use dairy-free alternatives for a dairy-free version.

Nutrition

Keywords: loaded baked potato casserole, cheddar bacon casserole, comfort food, easy casserole, cheesy potato bake