Description
This Mashed Potato Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish perfect for any occasion. Loaded with sour cream, cream cheese, melted butter, shredded cheddar, crispy bacon, and green onions, it combines smooth mashed potatoes with a flavorful baked top layer. Easy to prepare and perfect for make-ahead meals, this American classic will please a crowd with its rich texture and savory taste.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes until smooth, ensuring no large lumps remain.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Add the sour cream, softened cream cheese, melted butter, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until the mixture is creamy and fully combined.
- Mix in Half of Toppings: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the chopped green onions to the potato mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mashed potato mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon pieces on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with the remaining green onions, and serve warm.
Notes
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before reheating.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute with plant-based bacon alternatives.
- Use freshly cooked bacon for best texture and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, as cheeses and bacon add saltiness.
