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Easy Mashed Potato Casserole with cheese and bacon for a delicious side dish

Easy Mashed Potato Casserole Loaded and Cheesy

A creamy, cheesy potato casserole loaded with bacon and topped with melted cheese, perfect for family gatherings or comforting weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Comfort Food, Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 330
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks (Russet or Yukon Gold)
  • 4 tablespoons butter, plus a little extra for the baking dish
  • 3/4 to 1 cup milk (add slowly to control the texture)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided Use 1.5 cups in the mixture, save the rest for topping.
  • 6 to 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 3 to 4 green onions or chives, sliced For topping and mixing.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: a pinch of smoked paprika For additional flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  2. Drain well and allow the potatoes to steam dry in the pot for a minute.
  3. Mash the potatoes with butter, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour in milk slowly until you reach your desired texture.
  5. Stir in 1.5 cups of cheddar cheese, most of the bacon, and most of the green onions.
  6. Butter a 9x13 baking dish and evenly spread the mashed potato mixture in it.
  7. Top with the remaining cheese and bacon.
  8. Bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes, until hot and bubbly. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes for a browned top if desired.
  9. Finish with green onions or chives on top right before serving.

Notes

Taste the mashed potatoes before baking and adjust seasoning as necessary. You can prepare this dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Add an extra 10 to 15 minutes baking time if starting from cold.