If you are craving comfort food that feels like a warm hug from the inside, the Cheddar Bacon Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines the creamy, buttery goodness of mashed potatoes with sharp cheddar cheese and savory bacon, baked to perfection for a golden, cheesy crust that’s hard to resist. Each bite bursts with flavor and texture, creating a perfect side or even a stand-alone meal that pleases any crowd. Whether it’s for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this casserole brings joy to the table with its rich, homestyle appeal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, staple ingredients work together to create a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and irresistibly cheesy. Every item adds something special—whether it’s richness, tang, or a bit of crunch—making sure your Cheddar Bacon Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe is guaranteed to impress.
- Russet potatoes (3 lbs): The best choice for fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes that soak up all the flavor.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Adds a tangy creaminess that balances the richness of the cheese and butter.
- Milk (1/2 cup, more as needed): Helps achieve the perfect smooth texture for your mash.
- Unsalted butter (4 tbsp, melted): Brings a silky richness and depth to the potatoes.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1 1/2 cups, divided): The star ingredient for that sharp, melty, golden cheese layer.
- Garlic powder (1 tsp): Infuses a subtle but savory flavor into the mix.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Cooked crumbled bacon (optional, 1/2 cup): Adds a smoky, crispy contrast that elevates every bite.
- Chopped green onions (optional, 1/4 cup): Provides fresh, vibrant color and a mild bite.
How to Make Cheddar Bacon Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cubing your russet potatoes for even cooking. Place them in a large pot, cover generously with water, and bring to a boil. Cooking for about 15 to 20 minutes ensures they become fork-tender and ready to mash into that perfect creamy consistency.
Step 2: Mash to Perfection
Drain your cooked potatoes and return them to the pot while still hot. Add the melted butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Use a potato masher or mixer to blend everything until the potatoes are delightfully smooth and creamy. Adjust with extra milk if you want it lighter or creamier—this step is all about personal texture preferences.
Step 3: Stir in Cheese
Fold in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring gently but thoroughly until the cheese is well incorporated into the mash. This gives the base a rich, cheesy foundation that melts flawlessly when baked.
Step 4: Assemble and Top
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spoon the mashed potato-cheese mixture evenly into it. Smooth the top for an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining half-cup of cheddar on top, then add the optional crispy bacon bits and green onions if you love that extra pop of flavor and texture.
Step 5: Bake Until Bubbling
Place the dish in your oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese has melted into a bubbly, golden crust and the casserole is heated through. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving so it firms up a bit—making every scoop satisfying and neat.
How to Serve Cheddar Bacon Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your casserole with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or extra green onions to add color and freshness that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy potatoes. Crispy bacon crumbles on top add both visual appeal and that crave-worthy crunch everyone adores.
Side Dishes
Pairing this casserole is easy: roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or green beans offer a fresh, crisp counterbalance, while a simple garden salad keeps the meal light. For heartier occasions, complement with roast chicken or grilled steak to turn it into a feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming touch at dinner parties, or layer it with caramelized onions and sautéed mushrooms for a decadent twist. You can even add a drizzle of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream on top for those who love a little extra flair and flavor complexity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store the casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Covered properly, it maintains its creamy texture and cheesy goodness, ready for a quick reheat that feels nearly as fresh as when it was first baked.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or wrapping tightly with foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its tasty charm, making it a perfect meal prep candidate for busy weeks.
Reheating
For the best reheated experience, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. This helps preserve the cheesy crust. Alternatively, microwave portions for convenience, stirring halfway through heating for even warmth.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?
While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffiness and starch content, you can substitute Yukon Gold for a creamier, buttery texture, but the casserole might be denser. Avoid waxy potatoes as they don’t mash as smoothly.
Is it necessary to add bacon and green onions?
Not at all! They are optional, but highly recommended for extra flavor, texture, and color contrast. You can easily leave them out or swap with your favorite toppings like caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply skip the bacon, and consider adding smoked paprika or sautéed mushrooms for a smoky, savory touch without the meat.
How can I make the casserole extra creamy?
Feel free to increase the sour cream or butter slightly, and ensure you mash the potatoes thoroughly. Adding a splash more milk while mashing helps achieve an ultra-smooth texture.
What can I do to make the cheese topping extra crispy?
For a super crispy top, finish the casserole under the broiler for a minute or two at the very end of baking—just keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn. Adding a little grated Parmesan with the cheddar also helps create a golden, crunchy crust.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that brings warmth, comfort, and smiles every time it’s served, and this Cheddar Bacon Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe checks all those boxes with ease. From its creamy, cheesy layers to the crunchy bacon and perfectly baked top, it’s a surefire winner at any table. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this classic favorite—it just might become your new go-to potato recipe for all occasions.
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Cheddar Bacon Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy Mashed Potato Casserole combines smooth mashed russet potatoes with sour cream, melted butter, and cheddar cheese. Baked to perfection with a golden cheese topping and optional crispy bacon and green onions, it’s a comforting side dish perfect for family meals or holiday dinners.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
Dairy & Fats
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk (more as needed)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Seasonings
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- 1/2 cup cooked crumbled bacon
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for the casserole.
- Cook Potatoes: Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to boil. Cook for 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot for mashing.
- Mash Potatoes: Mash the potatoes together with sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust the milk quantity to achieve your desired consistency.
- Add Cheese: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes for a rich and cheesy flavor.
- Assemble Casserole: Spoon the mashed potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out smoothly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top. If using, scatter the cooked crumbled bacon and chopped green onions over the cheese layer.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dish is heated through.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving to let it set slightly for easier slicing and serving.
Notes
- Adjust milk quantity to get a creamier or thicker mashed potato consistency as desired.
- For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use additional green onions or chives for extra flavor.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy taste.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
- Consider substituting sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and added protein.
