Mashed Potato Casserole | Loaded Mashed Potato Recipe

Craving the cozy warmth of mashed potatoes but looking to take it up a notch? Say hello to the ultimate comfort food - Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole. This dish is everything you love about classic mashed potatoes, but with an indulgent twist that adds layers of flavor and texture.

Why You'll Love This Comforting Side Dish

• Convenience. Enjoy the flavors of loaded mashed potatoes without the hassle of individual servings. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
• Versatility. Customize your toppings to suit your taste. Bacon, cheese, green onions, and sour cream are just the beginning.
• Make-Ahead. Prepare the casserole ahead of time, pop it in the oven when you're ready, and enjoy a stress-free meal.
• Crowd-Pleaser. A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and savory toppings is irresistible.

With this Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole, you're transforming a classic side dish into a star of the meal. Whether it's a Sunday dinner or a festive occasion, this casserole is sure to bring smiles to the table.

Is Mashed Potato Casserole Good?

Absolutely! Loaded mashed potatoes take the familiar comfort of creamy mashed potatoes and elevate it to new heights with a medley of delicious toppings. The combination of rich, buttery potatoes and savory add-ons creates a dish that is not only good but downright irresistible.

The addition of crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and fresh green onions provides a symphony of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why Do You Put Butter In Mashed Potatoes?

Butter is a key ingredient in mashed potatoes for several reasons:

• Flavor- Butter adds a rich and savory flavor to mashed potatoes. The natural fats in butter contribute to the overall taste and enhance the deliciousness of the dish.
• Creaminess- Butter helps create a creamy texture in mashed potatoes. When combined with the starchy potatoes and any added liquid (such as milk or cream), butter contributes to the smooth and velvety consistency that people love in mashed potatoes.
• Moisture- The fat content in butter provides moisture to the mashed potatoes, preventing them from becoming dry. This is especially important if you're using starchy potatoes, as they can absorb a lot of liquid during the mashing process.

While butter is a traditional and widely loved addition to mashed potatoes, you can always adjust the amount based on personal preference or dietary considerations. Some recipes may also use alternatives like olive oil or cream for a different flavor profile.

Ingredients You'll Need

• Russet Potatoes- The starchy texture of russet potatoes makes for fluffy and creamy mashed potatoes.
• Butter- Adds richness and flavor to the mashed potatoes.
• Sour Cream- Enhances creaminess and tanginess.
• Milk- Adjusts the consistency of the mashed potatoes.
• Salt and Pepper- Season to taste.
• Cheddar Cheese- Sharp cheddar cheese adds a bold and savory element.
• Bacon- Crispy bacon bits provide a smoky and salty crunch.
• Optional- Chives, additional cheese, and sour cream for garnish.

How To Make Mashed Potato Casserole

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes. Peel and chop the potatoes into evenly sized-chunks. Boil for 15 minutes or until fork-tender, then drain and mash with butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Layer in a Casserole Dish. Spread half of the mashed potatoes into a greased casserole dish.
3. Add Toppings. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese, crispy bacon bits, and chopped green onions over the mashed potatoes.
4. Repeat Layers. Add the remaining mashed potatoes on top, followed by the rest of the toppings.
5. Bake Until Golden and Bubbly. Bake in the oven at 350F for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is golden brown.
6. Garnish and Serve. Garnish with additional cheese, chopped chives, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. Serve warm.

Tips And Tricks

Making Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is a breeze, but a few tips can ensure it turns out perfectly:

• Evenly-Sized Potatoes- Cut the potatoes into even-sized chunks to ensure they cook at the same rate.
• Flavorful Mash- Don't be shy with the butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper when mashing the potatoes. This is the base of your casserole, so make it tasty!
• Precook Bacon- Cook the bacon until crispy before adding it to the casserole for that perfect crunch.
• Make-Ahead- Assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve for a time-saving option.

Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole. Here are a few variations to consider:

• Loaded Baked Potato Casserole- Add a dollop of cream cheese to the mashed potatoes for an extra creamy texture.
• Buffalo Chicken Loaded Mashed Potatoes- Mix shredded buffalo chicken into the mashed potatoes and top with blue cheese crumbles.
• Loaded Vegetarian Casserole- Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

What To Serve With Mashed Potato Casserole

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole pairs well with a variety of dishes. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside:

• Roast Chicken- The classic pairing of roast chicken with mashed potatoes is always a winner.
• Grilled Steak- The hearty flavors of steak complement the richness of the loaded casserole.
• Stuffed Bell Peppers- For a flavorful option, serve alongside stuffed bell peppers filled with quinoa, black beans, and veggies.
• Roasted Vegetables- A side of roasted vegetables adds color and freshness to the meal.

How Long Does It Last?

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes, you can freeze Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole for up to 2-3 months. Ensure it's well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

More Delicious Side Dish Recipes

• Air Fryer Corn On The Cob
• Instant Pot Green Beans With Bacon
• Cheesy Potatoes
• Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
• Keto Broccoli Salad
• Cheesy Corn Casserole
• Instant Pot Mac And Cheese

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