Description
This loaded baked potato casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with all your favorite baked potato toppings. Made with tender russet potatoes, crispy bacon, sour cream, and melted cheddar cheese, it offers the ultimate comfort-food side dish or hearty family dinner that’s perfect for holidays, BBQs, or cozy weeknights.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Dairy
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup heavy cream or milk
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Additional Mix-ins
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ½ cup chopped green onions
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Extra cheese, bacon, or chives
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover them with salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 12–15 minutes or until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes well and transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash them lightly, leaving some chunks for texture if desired.
- Add Creamy Ingredients and Seasonings: Stir in sour cream, heavy cream (or milk), melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Fold in Cheese, Bacon, and Onions: Gently fold in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled cooked bacon, and chopped green onions.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with additional bacon and green onions or chives if desired before serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, add 4 oz cream cheese to the potato mixture.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor and melt.
- This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- It makes a great side dish for holidays, BBQs, and casual family dinners.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Side Dish / Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
