Imagine a dish that combines the comfort of baked potatoes with the indulgence of cheese and crispy bacon. This Cheesy Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it a favorite during chilly evenings.
Loaded with flavors and textures, this casserole features creamy potatoes, gooey cheese, and savory bacon bits. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or a main course, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a practical choice for busy weekdays or special occasions.
The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole
This Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Each bite combines fluffy potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a delightful contrast in taste and texture. It’s a deliciously cheesy dish that pairs well with any protein or can be enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Cook the Potatoes: Boil the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- Mix the Base: Add sour cream, cream cheese, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until creamy and well combined.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the mashed potato mixture in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheese and crumbled bacon over the top. Layer the remaining potato mixture, and finish with the remaining cheese and bacon.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped green onions, and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 8 servings
- Calories: 420kcal
- Fat: 25g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
