Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: Ultimate Comfort Dish!

July 5, 2025Maria

Introduction To Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

Creamy, cheesy, and topped with all your favorite fixings, Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is the epitome of cozy comfort food. It takes everything you love about a classic baked potato—rich butter, tangy sour cream, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and green onions—and transforms it into a warm, baked casserole that’s ideal for family dinners, potlucks, holidays, or any night you want a hearty and indulgent side dish.

This casserole is rich and flavorful enough to steal the spotlight on your dinner table but humble enough to complement almost any main dish. Whether you’re serving it next to a holiday ham, roast chicken, or grilled steaks, this mashed potato bake delivers layers of flavor and texture in every bite. It’s also incredibly forgiving and easy to make ahead, making it a go-to for busy cooks or those feeding a crowd.

Why Is This Recipe So Popular?

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole has become a comfort food favorite for several reasons:

Irresistible Flavor: It brings together buttery potatoes, gooey cheese, and savory bacon.
Easy to Make Ahead: Perfect for prepping the night before a big meal.
A Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by kids and adults alike.
Flexible: You can scale it up, add mix-ins, or tailor it to your taste.
Ultimate Side Dish: Works for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

✅ Ultra Creamy – Made with butter, sour cream, and cream cheese.
✅ Flavor Packed – Every bite has cheese, bacon, and scallion goodness.
✅ Perfect for Feeding a Crowd – Generous portions and rich flavor.
✅ Make-Ahead Friendly – Prep, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
✅ Totally Customizable – Add jalapeños, garlic, or your favorite cheese.

Ingredients:

These ingredients come together to form a powerhouse of flavor:

🥔 4 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
🧂 Salt (for boiling water and seasoning)
🧈 6 tbsp unsalted butter
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
🧀 8 oz cream cheese, softened
🍶 ¾ cup sour cream
🧀 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
🥓 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
🌶️ ½ tsp black pepper
🌿 ¼ cup chopped green onions or chives (plus extra for garnish)
🥛 ½ cup milk or heavy cream (adjust to desired consistency)

Preparation:

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes 🥔

Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.

Step 2: Mash & Mix the Potatoes 🧈🧀

Add butter, garlic (if using), cream cheese, and sour cream to the hot potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Stir in milk or cream a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 3: Add the Good Stuff 🧀🥓🌿

Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar, most of the crumbled bacon, black pepper, and chopped green onions or chives. Taste and add salt if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole 🥘

Spread the mashed potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden 🔥

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Garnish with extra green onions or chives before serving.

Variation:

Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.
Extra Cheesy: Use a mix of sharp cheddar, mozzarella, and Monterey Jack.
Loaded Ranch Version: Mix in dry ranch seasoning for a zesty twist.
Garlic Lovers: Roast a whole bulb of garlic and mash it into the potatoes.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon or use vegetarian bacon crumbles.

COOKING Note:

🥔 Yukon golds give a naturally buttery texture; russets yield fluffier mash.
🧈 Always mash potatoes while hot for the creamiest texture.
🧄 Garlic adds depth but is optional—use roasted garlic for a more mellow flavor.
🧀 Shred your own cheese for better melting and texture.
🥓 Cook bacon until crisp so it adds crunch, even after baking.

Serving Suggestions:

This rich casserole pairs beautifully with:

🍖 Roasted turkey, ham, or chicken
🥩 Grilled or seared steak
🥗 Fresh green salad or steamed broccoli
🍞 Dinner rolls or garlic bread
🍷 A glass of white wine or sparkling cider

Tips:

For fluffier potatoes, use a ricer or food mill instead of a masher.
Make the casserole a day ahead, then bake just before serving.
Add more cream or milk for a softer, silkier consistency.
Broil for the last 2 minutes to crisp the cheesy topping.
Freeze leftovers in individual portions for quick side dishes later.

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 10 servings):

Calories: 340
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 22g
Sodium: 410mg
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 2g

FAQs:

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. Let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.

How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave in individual portions.

Can I freeze it?

Yes! Freeze baked or unbaked casserole tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt is a great substitute that still adds tang and creaminess.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just use a larger baking dish or divide between two smaller ones.

Conclusion:

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is the definition of comfort food at its finest—rich, creamy, cheesy, and absolutely loaded with everything you love about a baked potato. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, preparing a Sunday dinner, or just looking for a cozy side dish to complement your main course, this casserole fits the bill beautifully. Every spoonful is warm, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it an instant family favorite and a recipe you’ll want to make again and again.