Loaded Mashed Potato Bake: The Ultimate Cheesy, Bacon-Packed Side Dish

Looking for the perfect side dish that combines creamy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, and crispy bacon? Look no further than this Loaded Mashed Potato Bake! This indulgent recipe takes classic mashed potatoes and transforms them into a decadent, crowd-pleasing casserole that’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or potlucks. With the addition of cheddar cheese, sour cream, bacon, and chives, this dish offers rich flavor and a comforting texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you pair it with a grilled steak, roasted chicken, or even serve it as the star of the meal, this potato bake is sure to impress. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Loaded Mashed Potato Bake

1. Rich and Creamy Texture: With sour cream, milk, and butter, these mashed potatoes are ultra-smooth and flavorful.
2. Cheesy and Indulgent: Gooey cheddar cheese takes this dish to the next level, adding a luscious layer of melted goodness.
3. Crispy Bacon Magic: Bacon brings salty, smoky crunch to every bite, making this casserole irresistible.
4. Versatile Side Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or potluck parties.
5. Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish in advance and simply bake it before serving.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s what you’ll need to make this loaded mashed potato masterpiece:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for their fluffy texture when mashed.
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
• 1/4 cup milk: Helps achieve a smooth, creamy consistency. Use whole milk for the richest flavor.
• 2 tbsp butter: Adds classic buttery richness to the mashed potatoes.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Provides gooey, cheesy deliciousness. Feel free to use sharp cheddar for extra flavor.
• 1/2 cup crumbled bacon: Crispy, salty bacon adds texture and a smoky flavor. Cook your own or use store-bought crumbles for convenience.
• 1/4 cup chopped chives: Adds a fresh, oniony flavor that balances the richness of the dish.

For Seasoning:

• Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing the flavors of the potatoes and ensuring the dish is perfectly seasoned.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect Loaded Mashed Potato Bake:

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes (about 1-2 inches). This ensures even cooking.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potatoes and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Check doneness by piercing the potatoes with a fork—they should slide off easily.

Step 2: Mash the Potatoes

1. Drain the cooked potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
2. Add the sour cream, milk, butter, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth and creamy.
3. Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped chives. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into the prepared baking dish.
3. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon evenly over the top of the mashed potatoes.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
2. For an extra golden, crispy topping, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the potato bake from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
2. Garnish with additional chopped chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
3. Serve hot as a decadent side dish alongside grilled chicken, steak, or your favorite main course.

Chef Tips for Success

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are light and fluffy when mashed, while Yukon Golds offer a creamier texture. Either variety works beautifully in this dish.
2. Avoid Overmixing: Overworking the potatoes can make them gummy, so mash just until smooth.
3. Customize the Add-Ins: Feel free to experiment by mixing in roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or even diced jalapeños for extra flavor.
4. Make It Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature and bake as directed.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully versatile! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Add a Crunchy Topping: Sprinkle breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking for a crispy finish.
• Go Extra Cheesy: Mix in additional cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor twist.
• Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper, red chili flakes, or diced jalapeños to add a little heat.
• Lower Fat Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduced-fat cheese to lighten up the dish.

What to Serve with Loaded Mashed Potato Bake

This casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes and sides. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled or Roasted Proteins: Serve with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pork chops for a hearty, well-rounded meal.
• Holiday Favorites: This dish is perfect alongside turkey, ham, or prime rib at your holiday table.
• Lighter Sides: Balance the richness with a crisp Caesar salad, steamed green beans, or roasted asparagus.
• Comfort Food Combos: Pair with meatloaf, fried chicken, or BBQ ribs for a comforting, indulgent feast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Here’s an estimate for one serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 360
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 3g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the mashed potatoes and assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or use the microwave for individual portions.

3. Can I freeze this casserole?

Yes! To freeze, assemble the casserole in a freezer-safe dish and skip the baking step. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

4. Can I use instant potatoes?

While fresh mashed potatoes are best, you can use instant mashed potatoes as a time-saving alternative. Just follow the package instructions and proceed with the recipe as written.

5. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Simply double the ingredients and bake the casserole in a larger dish (or two smaller dishes) to feed a crowd.

6. What’s the best way to cook bacon for this recipe?

Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy, or bake it in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Crumble it after it cools.

7. How do I prevent the mashed potatoes from being watery?

Make sure to drain the potatoes thoroughly after boiling. If your potatoes are too wet, let them steam-dry in the pot for a few minutes before mashing.

8. Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like Swiss, Gruyère, or Colby Jack for a unique twist.

Conclusion

This Loaded Mashed Potato Bake is everything you love about mashed potatoes—amped up with cheese, bacon, and a touch of elegance. Perfect for holidays, weeknight dinners, or special occasions, it’s a side dish that’s guaranteed to impress. Whether you serve it alongside steak, turkey, or roasted veggies, this dish is sure to become a staple on your table. Make it once, and you’ll be coming back for more—time and time again. Happy cooking! 🍴

 

Print