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Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe Easy Comfort Food with Crispy Cheese Crust

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A creamy, cheesy mashed potato casserole loaded with bacon and green onions, topped with a crispy cheese crust. Perfect comfort food that’s quick and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups (900 g) mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 cups (200 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 3 stalks green onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 4 tbsp (60 g) butter, melted
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
  3. If using leftover mashed potatoes, stir to loosen. If making fresh, peel and boil about 2 pounds (900 g) potatoes until fork-tender, then mash with butter and milk (optional).
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Blend smoothly with a spatula.
  5. Gently fold mashed potatoes into the creamy mixture, being careful not to overmix.
  6. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions. Reserve the other half of the cheese for topping.
  7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly, smoothing the surface.
  8. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese to create a crispy crust.
  9. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and crispier crust. Let cold mashed potatoes come to room temperature before mixing to avoid lumps. Watch baking time closely to prevent burning the cheese crust. Rest casserole 5 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potato casserole, comfort food, cheesy casserole, bacon casserole, easy side dish, crispy cheese crust