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Ultimate Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

A close-up of a serving of creamy potato casserole topped with melted cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.

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This recipe delivers the rich, creamy comfort of twice-baked potatoes in an easy casserole format, featuring sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon. It is a perfect make-ahead side dish for holidays or a hearty main for weeknights.

Ingredients

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  • 3 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, plus 1 cup for topping
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
  • 4 green onions, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are very tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes well.
  3. Return the drained potatoes to the hot pot. Add the warm milk, softened butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mash until smooth and creamy.
  4. Stir in the sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions. Mix until all ingredients combine evenly.
  5. Spread the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Top the casserole evenly with the remaining 1 cup of sharp cheddar cheese.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown on top.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a make-ahead option, prepare the casserole through step 5, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time if baking directly from the refrigerator.
  • If you prefer a hash brown casserole style, substitute the fresh potatoes with two 32-ounce bags of frozen shredded hash browns (do not thaw).
  • Use high-quality sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor in this cheesy potato bake.

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