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Ultimate Creamy Baked Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

A spoonful of cheesy, bacon-topped loaded mashed potatoes being lifted from a white baking dish.

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Create the ultimate comfort food side dish with this creamy baked loaded mashed potato casserole. This recipe combines fluffy potatoes with sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and sour cream for an indulgent dish perfect for holidays or gatherings.

Ingredients

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  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for boiling water
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced, divided
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Drain the potatoes completely. Return them to the hot, empty pot for one minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate. This step helps prevent gummy potatoes.
  4. Remove the pot from the heat. Add the softened butter, warm milk, 1 teaspoon of salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes until they are smooth. For the fluffiest texture, use a potato ricer or a hand masher; avoid using a food processor.
  5. Stir in the sour cream, 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the sliced green onions. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  7. In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese with the Monterey Jack cheese, if using. Sprinkle this cheese mixture over the top of the potatoes.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven. Sprinkle the remaining bacon and green onions over the top before serving hot.

Notes

  • To make this a make ahead mashed potatoes dish, prepare the casserole through step 6, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
  • For the creamiest mashed potatoes, ensure your milk and butter are at room temperature or slightly warmed before mixing them in.
  • If you want to make this a baked mashed potato recipe without baking, simply skip the baking step and serve immediately after topping with the remaining bacon and onions.

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