Ultimate Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

1. Layer the Casserole:

• Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

1. Add Cheese and Bacon:

• Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the potatoes. Crumble half of the bacon over the cheese layer.

1. Repeat Layers:

• If you like an extra cheesy casserole, you can layer additional cheese and bacon on top. Save some cheese and bacon for the final topping.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Final Topping:

• Add the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top of the casserole. Dot small pieces of butter on top if you like a golden, crispy finish.

1. Bake:

• Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling with golden brown spots.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish:

• Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives on top. This adds color and a fresh, mild onion flavor that cuts through the richness of the casserole.

1. Serve Warm:

• Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. This helps the layers settle, making it easier to scoop.

Tips for the Perfect Loaded Potato Casserole

1. Choosing the Right Potatoes:

• Russet potatoes create a fluffy, airy texture, while Yukon Gold potatoes give a creamy, rich consistency. For the best texture, avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, which can become gummy when mashed.

1. Using Room Temperature Ingredients:

• Bring ingredients like sour cream, heavy cream, and butter to room temperature before mixing. This helps them blend more smoothly, resulting in a creamier casserole.

1. Avoid Over-Mixing:

• Over-mixing potatoes releases more starch, which can make them gummy. Mash just until smooth for the best texture.

1. Extra Cheese for Crispiness:

• Adding a final layer of cheese before baking creates a delicious golden crust on top. For an even crisper top, try sprinkling with Parmesan or broiling the casserole for a couple of minutes.

1. Experiment with Toppings:

• Feel free to add other toppings like caramelized onions, sautéed mushrooms, or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.

Variations to Try

1. Loaded Baked Potato Style:

• Add chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream on top when serving, similar to a loaded baked potato.

1. Mexican-Inspired Version:

• Mix in diced green chilies, add a layer of salsa, and top with pepper jack cheese. Garnish with chopped cilantro.

1. Breakfast Version:

• Add scrambled eggs, sausage, and a bit of diced onion to the casserole for a hearty breakfast take on this dish.

1. Vegetarian Version:

• Skip the bacon and add roasted vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or mushrooms for a meat-free version. Smoked paprika can add a hint of smokiness in place of bacon.