Irresistible Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe with Bacon

The smell of crispy bacon and bubbling cheddar cheese on creamy mashed potatoes is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This loaded mashed potato casserole is pure comfort food perfection. I first whipped this up for a family gathering, and let me tell you—it disappeared faster than I could say “seconds!” Packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make, it’s the ultimate side dish for any occasion.

If you love the idea of turning humble mashed potatoes into a show-stopping casserole, this recipe is for you. With savory bacon, sharp cheddar, and a hint of garlic, it’s indulgent without being overly complicated. Plus, it’s versatile—you can prep it ahead of time, tweak the toppings, and make it your own. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about creating this irresistible dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients—just simple steps for a stunning result.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese combine for the ultimate cozy dish.
• Perfect for Gatherings: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a potluck, or Sunday dinner, this casserole is always a hit.
• Customizable: Add your favorite mix-ins like sour cream, green onions, or even jalapeños for a spicy twist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep the casserole in advance and simply bake when ready—it’s a lifesaver for busy hosts.

This recipe isn’t just a side dish; it’s an experience. The creamy potatoes, smoky bacon, and rich cheese make every bite memorable. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This loaded mashed potato casserole uses simple, crowd-pleasing ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Russet potatoes: Peeled and chopped. These are perfect for creamy mashed potatoes.
• Unsalted butter: Softened and melted for rich flavor.
• Milk: Use whole milk for creaminess or swap for half-and-half if you want extra decadence.
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra moisture to the mashed potatoes.
• Garlic powder: For a hint of savory goodness.
• Salt and pepper: To taste—seasoning is key!
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar works best for bold flavor.
• Bacon: Cooked and crumbled. Feel free to use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Green onions: Optional, but they add a fresh, zesty finish.

You can always tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. For example, swap sour cream with Greek yogurt or use Monterey Jack for a milder cheese flavor. The possibilities are endless!

Equipment Needed

To make this casserole, you don’t need a fancy kitchen setup. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

• Large pot: For boiling the potatoes.
• Potato masher or ricer: To achieve perfectly smooth mashed potatoes.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the ingredients.
• Baking dish: A 9×13-inch dish works best for this recipe.
• Whisk: To blend the butter, milk, and sour cream seamlessly.
• Aluminum foil: To cover the casserole while baking.

If you don’t have a potato masher, use a fork—it’ll take a little longer, but it works just fine. For the baking dish, you can substitute a round casserole dish or even a cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation.

Preparation Method

1. Boil the potatoes: Peel and chop 3 pounds (1.4 kg) of russet potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
2. Prepare the mashed potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash using a potato masher or ricer until smooth. Add 4 tablespoons (56 g) of melted butter, 1 cup (240 ml) of milk, and 1 cup (240 g) of sour cream. Stir until creamy and well combined.
3. Season the mixture: Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix thoroughly and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Add the cheese: Fold in 1 ½ cups (150 g) of shredded cheddar cheese. Save ½ cup for topping later.
5. Prepare the bacon: Cook 6 slices of bacon until crispy and crumble into small pieces. Stir half into the potato mixture and reserve the rest for topping.
6. Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mashed potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese and bacon over the top.
7. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes, then sprinkle with chopped green onions. Serve warm and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• For super creamy mashed potatoes, use a potato ricer instead of a masher. It creates a smoother texture without overmixing.
• Don’t overwork the potatoes after they’re mashed—too much mixing can make them gluey.
• Use room-temperature butter and milk to ensure everything blends seamlessly into the potatoes.
• Cook the bacon until it’s extra crispy; it’ll stay crunchy even after baking.
• If baking ahead of time, don’t add the green onions until just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.

These tips come from years of trial and error in my kitchen—trust me, they make all the difference when it comes to creating the perfect loaded mashed potato casserole!

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted garlic for depth of flavor.
• Low-Carb Swap: Replace half the potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a lighter version.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
• Cheese Choices: Swap cheddar for pepper jack, gouda, or even blue cheese to mix up the flavors.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use dairy-free butter, almond milk, and vegan cheese for a plant-based version.

One of my favorite tweaks is adding caramelized onions to the mix—they bring a touch of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the smoky bacon and sharp cheddar!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This casserole is best served warm, straight out of the oven. Pair it with roasted chicken, glazed ham, or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For beverages, a crisp white wine or a cold glass of iced tea complements the flavors perfectly.

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You’ll find the flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This loaded mashed potato casserole is indulgent but also packed with protein and calcium from the cheese and bacon. Each serving contains approximately:

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 12 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g

It’s naturally gluten-free and can be adapted for various dietary needs. While it’s not exactly a low-calorie dish, it’s a great choice for occasional indulgence, especially when shared with loved ones!

Conclusion

This irresistible loaded mashed potato casserole with bacon and cheddar is comfort food at its finest. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors that will keep everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a hearty side dish, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I love making this casserole because it brings people together—it’s one of those dishes that sparks joy and conversation around the table. I’d love to hear how you make it your own, so please share your tweaks and feedback in the comments below. Let’s keep the comfort food magic alive!

Now grab your potatoes, bacon, and cheese, and get ready to create something truly special. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the mashed potato mixture and assemble the casserole, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, bake as directed.

What’s the best type of potato to use?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they’re starchy and mash up beautifully. Yukon Golds are another great option for a creamier texture.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely. Store leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use mashed cauliflower to replace some of the potatoes, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, and opt for turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.

What other toppings can I add?

Get creative! Try adding caramelized onions, diced tomatoes, or jalapeños. Herbs like parsley or chives also make great additions.

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