Loaded Baked Potato Casserole takes the classic comfort of a baked potato and transforms it into an easy-to-serve dish perfect for crowds. This casserole combines creamy mashed potatoes with the irresistible flavors of cheddar cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions.
Origins
The exact origin of loaded baked potato casserole is difficult to pinpoint, but it evolved from the popular twice-baked potato. The casserole format makes it easier to serve a large group while maintaining the same rich and indulgent flavors.
Ingredients
- 5-6 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes
- ¼ – ½ cup unsalted butter
- 4-8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ – ⅔ cup sour cream
- ¼ – ½ cup milk (1%, 2%, or whole milk)
- ½ – 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, sharp cheddar recommended
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled (about 1 ½ cups)
- ¼ cup green onions, diced
Method of Preparation
-
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. -
Prepare the Potatoes
Wash, peel, and dice the potatoes into large chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and boil until tender. -
Mash the Potatoes
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Gently fold in the butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and milk. Mash until mostly smooth, leaving some lumps for texture. -
Add Seasonings and Fillings
Gently add garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the potato mixture. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese and half of the cooked bacon. -
Assemble and Bake
Pour the potato mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Top with the remaining cheese and bacon. -
Bake
Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. -
Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven and top with green onions. Serve immediately.
Cooking Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Potato Texture: Cut potatoes into bigger chunks when boiling to achieve a baked potato texture.
- Don’t Over Mash: Gently fold the ingredients instead of mashing excessively to avoid a gluey texture.
- Cheese Selection: Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances the flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.
- Dairy Choices: Avoid low-fat sour cream for the best creamy consistency.
Serving Tips
Loaded baked potato casserole is an excellent side dish for potlucks, holiday gatherings, or family dinners. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or vegetarian mains.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
While this dish is indulgent, some of its ingredients provide nutritional benefits:
- Potatoes: A great source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber.
- Dairy (Sour Cream, Cheese, Milk): A good source of calcium and protein.
- Green Onions: Rich in vitamins A and C.
Why Everyone Loves This Dish
People love loaded baked potato casserole because it’s a comforting, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and customize. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory bacon, and melted cheese is hard to resist.
Interesting Facts
- Using pre-cooked bacon pieces can save time.
- This dish is easily customizable—add different cheeses, seasonings, or toppings to suit your taste.
Summarized Recipe
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil diced potatoes until tender.
- Mash with butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and milk.
- Stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, cheese, and bacon.
- Pour into a greased dish, top with remaining cheese and bacon.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes until bubbly.
- Garnish with green onions and serve.
Enjoy this ultimate comfort food that brings the flavors of a loaded baked potato to the table in a convenient and delicious casserole!
