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Ultimate Loaded Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole

A spoonful of creamy mashed potato casserole topped with melted cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions being lifted from the dish.

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This recipe creates a rich, cheesy mashed potato casserole loaded with bacon and green onions. It is a simple, comforting side dish perfect for holidays or gatherings, and you can prepare it ahead of time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus 1/2 cup for topping
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  2. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the hot pot. Mash the potatoes until mostly smooth.
  3. In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm the milk and butter until the butter is melted. Do not boil.
  4. Add the warm milk and butter mixture to the mashed potatoes. Mix until just combined.
  5. Stir in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder until the mixture is creamy.
  6. Fold in the crumbled bacon and half of the chopped green onions.
  7. Spread the potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  8. Top the casserole with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese.
  9. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the topping is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
  10. Garnish with the remaining green onions before serving.

Notes

  • You can assemble this mashed potato casserole completely, cover it, and refrigerate it up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.
  • For an even richer flavor, substitute heavy cream for the milk.
  • This recipe works well for using leftover mashed potatoes from a previous meal.

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