Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

Introduction

Loaded Baked Potato Casserole takes everything you love about a classic baked potato — creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy sour cream — and layers it into one hearty, oven-baked dish.

It’s indulgent, comforting, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas. Each bite delivers creamy mashed potatoes with smoky bacon, melted cheddar, and a hint of green onion freshness.

❤️ Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s the ultimate comfort food. It has the creamy, buttery texture of mashed potatoes combined with the irresistible flavors of a loaded baked potato. The bubbling cheese on top, the crunchy bacon bits, and the silky richness of sour cream create a mouthwatering harmony of flavors and textures.

It’s easy to make, can be prepared ahead of time, and feeds a crowd effortlessly — the kind of dish that instantly disappears at gatherings.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

You must try this Loaded Baked Potato Casserole because:

• It transforms a simple side dish into a hearty, crowd-pleasing centerpiece.
• It’s easy, customizable, and perfect for any occasion.
• It’s a comfort classic that pairs beautifully with almost any main dish — from grilled chicken to steak or roasted veggies.
• Every creamy, cheesy bite feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

This is the kind of dish that turns ordinary dinners into something special.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6–8
• Calories: ~520 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Side Dish / Main Dish

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 6 large russet potatoes (about 3 lbs / 1.4 kg), peeled and cubed
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup milk (adjust for consistency)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Topping:

• Remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Boil potatoes until soft.
2. Mash with butter, milk, sour cream, and seasonings.
3. Mix in cheese and bacon.
4. Transfer to baking dish, top with cheese and bacon.
5. Bake until golden and bubbly.
6. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Peel and cut potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large pot, cover with salted water, and bring to a boil.
Cook until potatoes are fork-tender (about 15–18 minutes). Drain well.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes
Return potatoes to the pot. Add melted butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy and smooth (add more milk if needed for consistency).

Step 3: Mix in the Good Stuff
Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese, mozzarella, and most of the crumbled bacon (reserve some for topping). Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Spread the potato mixture evenly in the dish.

Step 5: Add Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top.

Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is lightly golden.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, cool for 5 minutes, and sprinkle with green onions or chives. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve

Serve your Loaded Baked Potato Casserole hot, straight from the oven, alongside:

• Grilled or roasted meats (steak, chicken, pork chops)
• Barbecue ribs or pulled pork
• Green salads or steamed vegetables

It also makes a show-stopping side dish for holiday feasts and Sunday dinners.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use starchy potatoes like russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest texture.
• Don’t overmix after adding cheese — it can make the potatoes gluey.
• For extra creaminess, add cream cheese to the mash.
• Use freshly shredded cheese — pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that affect melting.
• Bake uncovered for a crispier top or cover with foil for softer texture.

Variations

1. Loaded Chicken Potato Casserole: Add cooked shredded chicken for a protein-packed version.
2. Broccoli and Cheese Potato Casserole: Stir in steamed broccoli florets for a veggie boost.
3. Spicy Twist: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne for heat.
4. Ranch Style: Add 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning for a tangy flavor.
5. Vegetarian Version: Skip bacon and add caramelized onions or roasted mushrooms.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or store in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months.
• To Reheat:
  • Oven: Reheat covered at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes.
  • Microwave: Reheat individual portions for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Potato masher or electric mixer
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula

FAQ

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh before serving.

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: For best flavor, use real potatoes. However, instant mashed potatoes work in a pinch.

Q: What cheese works best?
A: Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can mix in Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for variety.

Q: Can I make it lighter?
A: Yes — use low-fat sour cream, turkey bacon, and reduced-fat cheese.

Q: Can I add vegetables?
A: Definitely! Add broccoli, corn, or sautéed onions for texture and nutrition.

Conclusion

Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that captures all the deliciousness of a loaded baked potato in a convenient, shareable form. Creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, smoky bacon, and tangy sour cream come together for an irresistibly rich, comforting experience.

Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this casserole is simple to make, endlessly adaptable, and always a guaranteed hit. One bite, and it’s easy to see why this dish has become a timeless favorite across generations.