Loaded Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

Introduction

Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Packed with creamy potatoes, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, it combines all the best elements of a loaded baked potato into one easy casserole.

A white rectangular baking dish filled with a layered casserole starting with creamy mashed potatoes at the base, topped evenly with melted cheddar cheese that has a rich golden yellow color. Scattered on top are small dark brown crispy bacon pieces and fresh chopped green scallions adding contrast and texture. The surface shows a slightly browned and melted cheese layer with irregular spots of crispy bits, all set against a white marbled textured background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 6 large russet potatoes
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 2/3 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 1/2 cups bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup green onions, diced

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Prepare a 9×13 casserole dish by spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Step 2: Wash, peel, and dice the potatoes. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and boil until tender.
  3. Step 3: Drain the potatoes and return them to the empty pot. Gently fold in the butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and milk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Step 4: Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of the cooked bacon. Pour this mixture into the prepared casserole dish.
  5. Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining cheese and bacon evenly over the top. Bake the casserole for 25 to 30 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  6. Step 6: Remove from the oven, sprinkle with diced green onions, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

  • For extra flavor, use smoked bacon or add a pinch of smoked paprika to the potato mixture.
  • Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier, healthier option.
  • Add cooked broccoli or caramelized onions for a vegetable boost.
  • Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for a gooey, melty texture.

Storage

Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish covered with foil in a 350-degree oven until heated through.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a cheesy baked dish in a white rectangular casserole dish, showing a thick bottom layer of creamy mashed potatoes with a slightly rough texture, topped with melted bright orange cheddar cheese spread unevenly, and sprinkled with small pieces of crispy, dark brown bacon bits and chopped fresh green onions scattered all over. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface with a white cloth featuring a gray checkered pattern partially visible to the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the baking step and refrigerate it for a few hours or overnight. When ready, bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I use different types of potatoes?

While russet potatoes work best for their fluffy texture, Yukon Gold can also be used for a creamier, slightly buttery flavor. Avoid waxy potatoes as they won’t mash as smoothly.

Print
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Loaded Baked Potato Casserole Recipe


  • Author: Julian
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

This Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is a comforting and satisfying dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Creamy mashed potatoes are blended with butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and milk, then mixed with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. Baked until bubbly and golden, and topped with fresh green onions, this casserole captures the classic flavors of a loaded baked potato in an easy-to-serve casserole form.


Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 6 large russet potatoes

Dairy

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 2/3 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)

Seasonings & Extras

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups bacon, cooked and crumbled (divided)
  • 1/4 cup green onions, diced

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Cook Potatoes: Wash, peel, and dice the russet potatoes into even pieces. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender when poked with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain and Mash: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the empty pot. Add butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and milk. Gently fold everything together until the potatoes are creamy and smooth.
  4. Season and Mix: Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of the crumbled bacon, folding gently to combine.
  5. Assemble Casserole: Pour the potato mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup bacon evenly over the top.
  6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is slightly golden.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the diced green onions on top. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Use russet potatoes for the best texture and flavor in this casserole.
  • For extra creaminess, make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing.
  • You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner version.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
  • Adding extra cheese on top gives a wonderful golden crust during baking.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Loaded baked potato casserole, cheesy potato casserole, bacon potato bake, comfort food casserole, side dish

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