Let me tell you about one of the ultimate comfort dishes that never fails to bring a smile to my face: a Loaded Baked Potato Casserole. This creamy, cheesy masterpiece combines pillowy mashed potatoes with all your favorite baked potato toppings in one glorious baking dish. Every forkful is a harmonious mix of soft spuds, tangy sour cream, and molten cheddar that stretches in satisfying ribbons. Then you get that delightful crunch from smoky, crispy bacon bits and a bright pop of fresh green onions. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something hearty on a weeknight, this casserole hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of dish that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a warm blanket and forget about the world for a little while.
I first stumbled upon this recipe at a family potluck where everyone was raving about it—and once I tried it, I was hooked. It’s ridiculously easy to whip up, even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen. With just a handful of pantry staples and simple steps—boil, mash, mix, and bake—you’ll have dinner on the table in about an hour. And here’s a little secret: you can totally prepare it a day in advance and bake it when you’re ready, making it a lifesaver for busy schedules or last-minute guests. So grab your potatoes and let’s dive into the cheesiest, creamiest casserole of your life!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN LOADED BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE
Before we dive into the step-by-step method, let’s break down the star players in this casserole. Each ingredient brings its own unique flavor and texture, working together to create that irresistible loaded-baked-potato experience you know and love.
- Russet potatoes
These starchy spuds are the perfect base for mashing. Their high starch content yields a fluffy, smooth texture that soaks up butter, cheese, and sour cream with ease.
- Butter
Melted butter adds a rich, velvety mouthfeel and carries the comforting flavor that elevates the potatoes from bland to brilliant.
- Sour cream
A tangy agent that brings moisture and a subtle tartness, balancing out the richness of butter and cheese.
- Shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp and gooey, this cheese melts beautifully into the potato mixture, creating savory pockets of flavor in every bite.
- Chopped cooked bacon
Crispy bacon bits lend a smoky, savory crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy mash.
- Chopped green onions
Fresh, mild onion flavor and a touch of color brighten the dish and cut through the richness.
- Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings that enhance and harmonize all the flavors without overpowering them.
- Additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping
A generous layer on top ensures a bubbly, golden-brown crust that’s as gorgeous as it is delicious.
- Additional chopped bacon for topping
Scattered over the melted cheese, these bacon bits add an extra punch of smoky crispiness right before serving.
- Additional chopped green onions for garnish
A final flourish that adds vibrant color and a fresh, oniony zing to each portion.
HOW TO MAKE LOADED BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE
Ready to turn these ingredients into pure comfort-food magic? The process is straightforward and incredibly rewarding. Follow these detailed steps to ensure your casserole comes out perfectly creamy inside with a golden, cheesy top.
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure it reaches the right temperature before you start baking so the cheese melts evenly and the topping gets that irresistible golden hue.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until they’re tender—about 15–20 minutes. You want to be able to slide a fork through easily.
3. Drain the potatoes thoroughly to remove excess water. A dry mash keeps the casserole from becoming runny.
4. Return the potatoes to the pot and mash them until they’re smooth and lump-free. Use a potato masher or ricer for the best texture.
5. Stir in the melted butter, sour cream, shredded cheddar, cooked bacon, and chopped green onions. Mix vigorously until every bit is well combined and the mixture is creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be shy—you want the flavors to shine through each mouthful.
7. Transfer the potato mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
8. Sprinkle the additional shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, creating a full, bubbling blanket of cheese.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, gooey, and lightly browned at the edges.
10. Remove the casserole from the oven and immediately top with the remaining chopped bacon for extra crunch.
11. Garnish with the extra green onions to add a fresh, colorful finish. Serve warm and enjoy this savory, indulgent casserole!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR LOADED BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE
Let’s talk about taking your casserole from awesome to unforgettable when it hits the table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or part of a festive spread, these serving ideas will ensure everyone’s plates are piled high—and empty at the end!
- Serve with a crisp green salad
Balance the indulgence by pairing each creamy square with a salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The acidity and crunch contrast beautifully.
- Add grilled or roasted protein
Turn this into a full meal by pairing slices of juicy grilled chicken, steak, or roasted sausages alongside the casserole. The smoky char on the meat complements the bacon in every bite.
- Offer a topping bar
Let guests customize their portions with extras like diced jalapeños, a dollop of extra sour cream, chopped chives, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a fun, interactive element.
- Include on a brunch buffet
This casserole works brilliantly for brunch—just place it next to fruit platters, quiches, and fresh pastries. Guests will love scooping out warm, cheesy portions alongside their coffee.
HOW TO STORE LOADED BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE
One of the best things about this casserole is how well it keeps. With a few simple steps, you can enjoy leftovers that feel just as comforting as the first bake.
- Refrigerate in an airtight container
Once cooled to room temperature, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to prevent a film from forming, then seal in a container. Keeps fresh for up to 4 days.
- Freezer-friendly portions
Cut into individual servings and wrap each piece tightly in foil, then place in a freezer bag. Label with the date and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven
For best results, place a portion on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and warm at 325°F (160°C) until heated through—about 15–20 minutes. This preserves the texture better than a microwave.
- Make ahead and bake later
Assemble the entire casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, simply bake according to the original instructions, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
CONCLUSION
We’ve covered everything you need to know to make, serve, and store this dreamy Loaded Baked Potato Casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. From the foundational russet potatoes and rich sour cream to the melty cheddar and crispy bacon, every ingredient works in harmony to create a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re a kitchen novice or a seasoned home cook, these simple steps will guide you toward a golden, bubbly, savory casserole that everyone will rave about. Don’t forget that you can print this article to keep it in your recipe binder or save it for later reference—your future self will thank you on busy weeknights or when you need a last-minute dish for company. Plus, there’s a handy FAQ waiting just below to address any extra questions you might have.
I’d love to hear how your casserole turns out! If you have any comments, questions, or special twists you tried, please share your feedback. Did you sneak in some jalapeños for a kick, or swap russets for Yukon Gold? Let me know if you need clarification on any step or have a tip of your own to add. Cooking is all about sharing stories and flavors, and your insights might inspire someone else to whip up this cheesy, comforting delight. Happy baking—and here’s to many more cozy, flavor-packed meals in your kitchen!
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Description
Experience the comforting flavors of baked potatoes enveloped in rich cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions in this simple yet indulgent casserole dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the cubed potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
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Return the potatoes to the pot and mash them until smooth.
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Stir in the melted butter, sour cream, 1 cup cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup cooked bacon, and 1/4 cup green onions. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Transfer the potato mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Sprinkle the additional 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the potato layer.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from oven and top with the additional 1/4 cup chopped bacon.
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Garnish with the additional chopped green onions for a pop of color.
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Serve warm and enjoy this savory and creamy casserole!
Note
- This dish can be made a day in advance, stored in the refrigerator, and baked the next day.
- Experiment by adding toppings like jalapenos, chives, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- This recipe is ideal for gatherings as it combines classic loaded baked potato flavors in a convenient casserole format.
- Swap the russet potatoes with Yukon Gold for a naturally buttery taste.
- To reduce prep time, use pre-cooked bacon and pre-shredded cheese, but ensure its quality for best results.
