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Crispy Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole with Cheddar Bacon

crispy loaded mashed potato casserole - featured image

A quick and easy comfort food casserole featuring creamy mashed potatoes loaded with sharp cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, baked to golden perfection with a crispy top.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups mashed potatoes (about 900 grams), leftover or freshly made with butter and cream
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (about 200 grams), sharp or extra sharp
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml)
  • 3 to 4 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 3 tablespoons butter (about 45 grams), melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional toppings: extra cheddar cheese or crispy fried onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 8-10 minutes. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Add a splash of milk if potatoes are too stiff.
  4. Mix in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Top with the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese and bacon, sprinkling evenly.
  7. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes until edges bubble and top is golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
  8. Remove from oven and sprinkle sliced green onions over the top.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Keep the baking dish lightly greased to avoid sticking. If mashed potatoes are watery, add more cheese or a spoonful of flour to thicken. Watch the casserole closely during broiling to prevent burning. Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potato casserole, cheddar bacon casserole, comfort food, easy casserole, loaded mashed potatoes, crispy casserole