Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: The Ultimate Cheesy Bacon Comfort Food Side Dish Recipe
If you love potatoes as much as I do, you know there’s an endless variety of delicious ways to enjoy them. But sometimes, you crave something truly comforting, a dish that feels like a warm hug and brings everyone to the table. This Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole recipe takes everything you adore about classic mashed potatoes and elevates it to an entirely new level of indulgence. Imagine fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes, generously blended with savory cream cheese, tangy Greek yogurt, rich butter, and decadent heavy cream. Then, it’s loaded with two types of sharp cheddar cheese and crispy, flavorful bacon, baked until golden and bubbly. It’s like a deconstructed loaded baked potato, but even easier to prepare and perfect for sharing with a crowd. This casserole is not just a side dish; it’s a statement, a centerpiece that promises to be devoured at any gathering, potluck, or holiday feast. Get ready to experience comfort food perfection that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Why This Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe Works
Mashed potatoes are a beloved staple in countless households, and for good reason – they’re simple, versatile, and incredibly satisfying. But this particular potato casserole transcends the everyday mashed potato, transforming it into a truly unforgettable experience. What makes this recipe an absolute winner? It starts with a base of perfectly cooked, fork-tender russet potatoes, mashed to your preferred creamy consistency. We then introduce a symphony of flavors and textures: the subtle tang and richness of cream cheese, the hint of tartness from plain Greek yogurt, the luxurious mouthfeel of heavy cream and melted butter, and a thoughtful blend of seasonings including garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and a touch of cayenne for a gentle warmth.
The real magic happens when we generously fold in two cups of sharp cheddar cheese, making every bite burst with gooey, cheesy goodness. To crown this masterpiece, a sprinkle of the remaining cheddar and a generous scattering of crispy, cooked bacon bits are added before baking. The result is a bubbly, golden-brown casserole that offers layers of flavor and a texture that is simultaneously creamy and delightfully cheesy. It’s the ultimate comfort food, making it an awesome side dish for a crowd, perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, family gatherings, or simply an indulgent weeknight meal. This recipe works because it takes a comforting classic, enhances it with irresistible additions, and delivers a dish that everyone will rave about. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to adapt to your taste, guaranteeing a crowd-pleasing result every time.
RELATED: You might also like these comforting casserole recipes – Chicken Stuffing Casserole or Broccoli Cheese Casserole
Ingredients You Will Need for the Best Loaded Potato Casserole
Crafting the perfect Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole starts with selecting the right ingredients. For the best results, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets, as they mash up light and fluffy, creating that ideal creamy base. Ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before you begin; this makes them much easier to incorporate smoothly into the warm potatoes, preventing lumps and ensuring an even distribution of flavor. While sharp cheddar is recommended for its robust and distinctly savory flavor, feel free to experiment with other good melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a smoky Gouda for a unique twist. Freshly cooked and crumbled bacon will always yield the best taste and texture, but good quality pre-cooked bacon bits can work in a pinch if you’re short on time. Gathering all your ingredients and having them prepped before you begin cooking will make the process seamless and enjoyable, leading to a perfectly harmonious dish.
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
Creating this decadent Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is surprisingly straightforward, resulting in a dish that looks and tastes incredibly impressive, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions. The process involves a few simple steps: first, cooking and mashing your potatoes to the desired consistency, then incorporating a rich and flavorful blend of dairy and seasonings to create the ultimate creamy base. Finally, you’ll layer it generously with cheese and bacon before a final bake in the oven to achieve that irresistible bubbly, golden-brown crust. Follow these detailed steps to achieve a perfectly creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying casserole that will be the star of your next meal or gathering.
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when the casserole is assembled. Prepare a 9×13 baking dish by lightly spraying it with cooking oil or buttering it. This prevents sticking and makes for easy cleanup. Set the prepared dish aside.
- Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot, covering them with cold water. Bring the water to a rapid boil over high heat. Boil for a few minutes, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Allow the potatoes to cook for 15-20 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork, indicating they are perfectly tender.
- Once the potatoes are cooked through and tender, carefully drain all the water from the pot. Return the hot potatoes to the pot and mash them using a potato masher, ricer, or even an electric mixer, until they reach your preferred consistency – whether you like them perfectly smooth or with a few delightful lumps.
- To the mashed potatoes, stir in the softened cream cheese, plain Greek yogurt, melted butter, heavy cream, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined and the mixture is smooth and creamy. The warmth of the potatoes will help melt the dairy ingredients seamlessly.
- Now, add 2 cups of the divided shredded sharp cheddar cheese into the potato mixture. Stir gently until the cheese is just combined and beginning to melt into the warm potatoes, creating pockets of cheesy goodness.
- Carefully spread the rich and creamy potato mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13 baking dish. Ensure it forms a consistent layer. Then, generously sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top, followed by the cooked and chopped bacon bits, creating a beautiful and flavorful crust.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and golden brown. For an extra touch of freshness and color, garnish with sliced green onions or fresh chives just before serving (this step is optional but highly recommended). Serve hot and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions About Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
You can easily store any leftover casserole in the refrigerator. Transfer it to an airtight container to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. It will stay good for about 4-5 days. When reheating, if the potatoes seem a bit dry or clumped up, adding a splash of sour cream, heavy cream, or milk can help restore their creamy texture and moisture. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the casserole dish with foil and warm it in the oven at a lower temperature until heated through.
Absolutely! This loaded mashed potato casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for holiday meals or busy weeknights. For the best results, prepare the casserole up to the point just before you would place it in the oven. Assemble everything in your baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while your oven preheats. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since the casserole will be cold when it goes into the oven. This ensures it heats through evenly and becomes perfectly bubbly.
This hearty and flavorful casserole makes a fantastic side dish for a wide variety of meals, especially for parties or big dinners. It pairs wonderfully with classic comfort foods. I would highly recommend eating it alongside succulent beef dishes like roasted beef tenderloin, pot roast, or juicy steaks. It also complements various white meats such as tender chicken (like roasted chicken or grilled chicken breasts) or a slow-cooked pork loin. For additional side dishes, consider serving it with fresh green beans, roasted asparagus, glazed carrots, or sweet corn on the cob. A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette also provides a nice balance to the richness of the potatoes.
For the ultimate creamy and fluffy texture in your mashed potato casserole, Russet (also known as Idaho) potatoes are highly recommended. Their high starch content makes them ideal for mashing, as they absorb butter, cream, and cheese beautifully, resulting in a light and airy consistency. Yukon Gold potatoes are another excellent choice if you prefer a slightly richer, naturally buttery flavor and a creamier, less fluffy mash. It’s generally best to avoid waxy potatoes like red or new potatoes for mashing, as their low starch content can lead to a gummy or gluey texture when overworked.
Absolutely! While bacon and sharp cheddar are the classic combination for a “loaded” potato casserole, feel free to get creative and personalize your toppings. Before serving, you could add dollops of sour cream for an extra tangy kick, a sprinkle of fresh chives or finely chopped green onions for a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant color, or even a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky note. Other cheese variations like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses would also be delicious and melt beautifully. For a richer flavor profile, consider adding caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms to the potato mixture before baking.
Achieving perfectly creamy and lump-free mashed potatoes is key to a fantastic casserole. Start by ensuring your potatoes are cooked until truly fork-tender, but avoid overcooking them, which can make them absorb too much water. Drain them very thoroughly. For the smoothest consistency, use a potato ricer or a food mill. If using a hand masher, mash until just smooth, as over-mashing can release too much starch and lead to a gummy texture. Make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature and consider warming the heavy cream slightly before adding it; these steps help them incorporate seamlessly into the hot potatoes, creating a luxurious and velvety texture without any unwanted lumps.
Next time you’re hosting company, headed to a potluck, or planning a special holiday gathering, be sure to make this incredibly delicious and crowd-pleasing mashed potato casserole. Its irresistible combination of creamy potatoes, rich cheese, and crispy bacon creates a symphony of flavors and textures that no one can resist. This dish truly embodies the essence of comfort food and is guaranteed to be a hit, leaving everyone feeling satisfied and eager for more. It’s not just a side; it’s an experience!
More Delicious Potato Recipes to Try
- Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
- Bacon Three Cheese Potatoes
- Scalloped Potatoes
- Roasted Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic
- Potatoes Au Gratin with Bacon and Leeks
- Funeral Potatoes
- Hasselback Potatoes
I love to bake and cook and share my kitchen experience with all of you! Remembering to come back each day can be tough, that’s why I offer a convenient newsletter every time a new recipe posts. Simply subscribe and start receiving your free daily recipes!
Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
Print It
Pin It
Rate It
Save ItSaved!
Ingredients
- 5 pounds russet potatoes peeled and cubed (about 12 medium potatoes), for best mashing results
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened and cubed, for creamy texture
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt adds a subtle tang and richness
- ½ cup cup salted butter melted or softened, for flavor and creaminess
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream for extra richness
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder for aromatic flavor
- ½ teaspoon onion powder enhances savory notes
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a hint of warmth, adjust to preference
- ¼ teaspoon cumin adds an earthy depth
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar divided, for mixing and topping
- ½ cup bacon cooked until crispy and chopped, for irresistible flavor and crunch
- sliced green onion or chives Optional garnish, for freshness and color
Things You’ll Need
-
13×9 baking dish
-
Potato Masher
-
Spoon
Before You Begin
- For the creamiest results, ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. They will melt effortlessly into the warm, mashed potatoes mixture. If you’re short on time, you can melt your butter ahead of time to speed up the process even further.
- The consistency of your mashed potatoes is a matter of personal preference. I prefer a very creamy potato texture, so I typically mash the potatoes until no lumps remain. However, if you enjoy a more rustic texture, feel free to leave in a few small lumps for added character.
- Using high-starch potatoes like Russets will yield the fluffiest mashed potatoes that are perfect for absorbing all the delicious flavors in this casserole.
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking oil or grease with butter to prevent sticking, then set it aside.
-
Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender and easily pierced.
-
Once the potatoes are cooked, thoroughly drain them and return them to the pot. Mash them using a potato masher, ricer, or electric mixer until they reach your desired consistency, whether smooth or slightly lumpy.
-
Stir in the softened cream cheese, plain Greek yogurt, melted butter, heavy cream, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Mix vigorously until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mashed potato mixture is wonderfully creamy and smooth.
-
Add 2 cups of the divided shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the potato mixture. Fold it in gently until the cheese is evenly distributed and begins to melt into the warm potatoes.
-
Evenly spread the loaded potato mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top, followed by the crispy, cooked bacon bits, creating a beautiful and flavorful topping.
-
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted and lightly golden. For an optional fresh touch, garnish with sliced green onions or chives before serving.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.