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Ultimate Creamy Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

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This creamy, cheesy mashed potato casserole combines rich potatoes with bacon and green onions, baked until golden. It is a simple, crowd-pleasing side dish perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners, and you can prepare it ahead of time.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh green onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Place the peeled potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the hot pot to dry out for one minute over low heat, shaking occasionally.
  4. Remove the pot from the heat. Add the warm milk, softened cream cheese, butter, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  5. Mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Mix in 3/4 cup of the cheddar cheese, the crumbled bacon, and half of the green onions until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese topping is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with the remaining green onions.

Notes

  • To make this a make-ahead side dish, assemble the casserole completely (up to the final cheese topping), cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time before uncovering and finishing as directed.
  • For extra flavor, substitute sour cream for some of the milk.
  • You can use pre-made mashed potatoes to reduce prep time significantly.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://delishsymphony.com/mashed-potato-casserole-recipe/