Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole is a dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. Imagine creamy, buttery mashed potatoes topped with crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a sprinkle of green onions—it’s a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist! This delightful casserole has roots in American cuisine, often gracing holiday tables and family gatherings, making it a beloved staple for many. What I adore about Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole is not just its rich taste and velvety texture, but also its convenience; it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving. It’s the perfect side dish that complements any main course, and I can guarantee that once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite among friends and family alike!

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of russet potatoes
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Preparing the Potatoes

1. Start by peeling the russet potatoes. I like to use a vegetable peeler for this task, as it makes the process quick and easy.
2. Once peeled, cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches. This ensures they cook evenly.
3. Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water to season the potatoes as they cook.
4. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
5. Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate.

Making the Mashed Potato Mixture

1. Transfer the drained potatoes back into the pot or a large mixing bowl. I prefer using a bowl for easier mixing.
2. Add the softened cream cheese and melted butter to the potatoes. The warmth of the potatoes will help melt the cream cheese further, making it easier to mix.
3. Pour in the sour cream and milk. This will give the mashed potatoes a creamy texture.
4. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, and a good amount of salt and pepper. I usually start with about 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper, but feel free to adjust to your taste.
5. Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. I like mine a bit chunky, but you can make them as smooth as you prefer.

Adding the Goodies

1. Once the potatoes are mashed, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. This is where the loaded aspect of the dish comes into play!
2. Mix everything together until well combined. The heat from the potatoes will help melt the cheese slightly, making it even more delicious.
3. Now, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a bit more salt or pepper, depending on your preference.

Assembling the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the casserole is hot and bubbly when it’s done baking.
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a little bit of butter to prevent sticking.
3. Transfer the loaded mashed potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
4. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the mashed potatoes. This will create a nice crust as it bakes.
5. Finally, add the additional shredded cheddar cheese on top for that extra cheesy goodness.

Baking the Casserole

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden brown.
2. If you want a crispier top, you can broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving the Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole

Conclusion:

In summary, this Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole is an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their comfort food game. The creamy, buttery mashed potatoes combined with the savory toppings create a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, a family dinner, or just a cozy night in, this casserole is sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this casserole with a succulent roast chicken or a juicy steak for a complete meal. You can also switch things up by adding different toppings like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even a sprinkle of crispy fried onions for an extra crunch. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences. I encourage you to give this Loaded Mashed Potatoes Casserole a try and experience the joy it brings to your table. Don’t forget to share your experience with friends and family, and let them know how much you loved it! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or make your own variations, I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!

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