Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the delicious flavors of a classic baked potato with cheese, bacon, sour cream, and green onions into one creamy, hearty dish. This casserole is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a holiday side dish, and it’s easy to make with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for creamier texture)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup green onions, chopped (divided)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for extra cheesiness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ cup cream cheese for a richer texture
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
- ½ cup cooked and chopped broccoli for added veggies
For Serving:
- Extra sour cream
- Additional bacon and cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes well.
Step 3: Mash the Potatoes
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the cooked potatoes until smooth. You can use a potato masher or an electric mixer for a creamier texture.
- Stir in the sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and creamy.
Step 4: Add the Mix-Ins
- Fold in 1 cup of cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon (reserve some for topping), and half of the chopped green onions. Stir until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
- Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese (and mozzarella, if using).
Step 6: Bake the Casserole
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle with the remaining crumbled bacon and chopped green onions.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Serve hot with extra sour cream, if desired.
Cooking Notes
- Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this casserole because they’re starchy and mash up to a creamy texture, but you can also use Yukon Gold for a slightly buttery flavor.
- Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic, but you can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or mozzarella for added flavor.
- Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy for the best texture. You can also substitute with turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon if preferred.
Variations
1. Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Add extra toppings like sour cream, chopped broccoli, or jalapeños for a loaded baked potato experience. You can even sprinkle the top with French-fried onions or crushed potato chips for extra crunch.
2. Cheesy Bacon Ranch Potato Casserole
Mix 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning into the mashed potatoes and top with a mixture of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses for a tangy, ranch-flavored twist.
3. Vegetarian Baked Potato Casserole
Omit the bacon and fold in roasted vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini for a veggie-packed casserole. You can also use plant-based bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version.
4. Spicy Baked Potato Casserole
Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mashed potato mixture, and use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick.
5. Low-Carb Cauliflower Potato Casserole
Replace half or all of the potatoes with mashed cauliflower for a low-carb version that still delivers all the creamy, cheesy goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Baked Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole up to 1 day in advance. Cover and refrigerate it until ready to bake. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 15 minutes and then bake as directed.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake the entire casserole at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: Can I freeze Baked Potato Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. Let the cooked casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, if you’re short on time, you can use instant mashed potatoes or leftover mashed potatoes. Just mix in the cheese, bacon, and other ingredients before assembling the casserole.
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes?
Yes! You can substitute sweet potatoes for a different flavor profile. The sweetness of the potatoes pairs nicely with the savory bacon and cheese.
This Baked Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s loaded with the flavors of a classic baked potato, but in a convenient casserole form. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with crispy bacon, making it a comforting side or main dish for any occasion. Customize it with your favorite ingredients and serve it at your next family gathering or holiday meal.
