Description
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food packed with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions. This easy dinner recipe delivers all the flavors of a classic loaded baked potato in a warm and cheesy casserole that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, family dinners, and cozy weeknight meals. Whether you need quick dinner ideas, hearty side dishes, comfort food recipes, or crowd-pleasing food ideas, this cheesy potato casserole is always a hit. The rich, creamy texture combined with smoky bacon and gooey cheese creates a satisfying dish everyone will request again and again.
Ingredients
6 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup whole milk
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
4 green onions, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 cup cream cheese (optional)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Place the cubed potatoes into a large pot and cover with salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until fork-tender.
3. Drain the potatoes thoroughly and allow excess steam to evaporate for 2 to 3 minutes.
4. While the potatoes cook, prepare the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to paper towels and crumble once cooled.
5. Add the hot potatoes back into the pot or a large bowl. Mix in butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
6. Mash the potatoes until creamy and smooth without overmixing.
7. Stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, half of the bacon, and half of the green onions.
8. Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
9. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon crumbles.
10. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until hot and bubbly.
11. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes if desired for a crispier cheese topping.
12. Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with the remaining green onions before serving.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting and better flavor.
Do not overmix the potatoes or they may become gummy instead of fluffy.
Allow the casserole to rest for several minutes after baking for easier serving and improved texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: loaded baked potato casserole, cheesy potato casserole, easy dinner recipe, comfort food, potato side dish, holiday casserole, baked potato casserole, family dinner ideas