Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
A crowd-pleasing, hearty side dish featuring creamy mashed potatoes topped with all the classic loaded baked potato toppings: crispy bacon, melted cheese, sour cream, and green onions.
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Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup sour cream, plus more for topping
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 6 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
- 4 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
- 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions
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1
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 2-quart baking dish.
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2
Place 2 lbs peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes russet potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
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3
While the potatoes are cooking, cook 6 bacon strips until crispy. Drain on paper towels, then crumble and set aside.
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4
Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander, then return them to the hot pot. Allow them to sit for a minute so excess moisture evaporates.
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5
Add 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter, 1/2 cup plus more for topping sour cream, and 1/2 cup warmed whole milk to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy.
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6
Stir in half of the 1 cup shredded, divided sharp cheddar cheese, half of the cooked and crumbled bacon, half of the 4 thinly sliced green onions, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Mix well to combine.
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7
Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon. Dust lightly with 1/4 tsp paprika for color.
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8
Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the edges are bubbly and golden brown.
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9
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Top with the remaining green onions and additional sour cream if desired before serving.
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10
This casserole can be assembled up to 1 day ahead, refrigerated covered, and baked when needed. If baking from refrigerated, add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
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