If you're on the hunt for an easy dinner idea that will leave everyone at the table smiling, look no further than Loaded Potato Casserole. This dish is the ultimate comfort food—warm, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It combines all the classic potato toppings—cheese, bacon, green onions, and sour cream—into a single creamy, savory bake. Whether you're feeding a hungry family, hosting a potluck, or simply craving a hearty dinner, this recipe will be your go-to.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this cheesy masterpiece:
- 5 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or milk, for a lighter option)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions, plus extra for garnish
Optional Ingredients for Customization:
- 1/2 cup chopped cooked chicken (for a protein boost)
- 1/2 cup steamed broccoli (to sneak in some veggies)
Instructions
Making this Loaded Potato Casserole is as simple as it is satisfying. Just follow these steps to whip up a dish your whole family will love.
1. Prep the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Mash it Up
- Transfer the cooked potatoes to a large bowl. Add the sour cream, butter, heavy cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher or electric mixer to mash the potatoes until they’re creamy and smooth.
3. Layer the Flavors
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and 1/4 cup of green onions into the mashed potatoes. Mix until everything is evenly combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Spread the potato mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and the rest of the bacon over the top.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with extra green onions for a fresh pop of color. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Tips for Customization
- Add meat: Stir in cooked, shredded chicken or ground beef for a heartier meal.
- Pack in veggies: Mix in steamed broccoli, spinach, or caramelized onions to add some greens without compromising the comfort-food vibes.
- Switch up the cheese: Experiment with Monterey Jack, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack for a fun twist.
- Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to serve!
How to Serve
Loaded Potato Casserole is a meal in itself, but it also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some roasted veggies for a well-rounded dinner. It’s perfect for weeknight meals, holiday gatherings, or whenever you need an indulgent treat to share with loved ones.
This easy dinner idea is bound to become a repeat request in your household. Once you take that first cheesy, bacon-filled bite, you’ll know why this recipe is a family favorite. Happy cooking!
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