Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Mashed Potato Casserole recipe. This hearty dish combines creamy mashed potatoes with savory bacon, tangy cheese, and aromatic spices, creating a flavorful masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or simply craving a cozy meal, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Join us as we explore the recipe and unlock the secrets to creating this irresistible dish that will leave your taste buds longing for more.
Ingredients:
Meat:
- 12 oz Bacon, thick-cut
Produce:
- 4 Green onions
- 2 lbs Russet potatoes
Baking & Spices:
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 1/2 tsp Salt
Dairy:
- 8 tbsp Butter, unsalted
- 3 cups Cheddar cheese, sharp
- 8 oz Cream cheese
- 1/2 cup Sour cream
- 1/2 cup Whole milk
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel and cube the russet potatoes. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and whole milk. Mix until smooth and well combined. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, reserving some for topping.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Transfer the cooked potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add the butter, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Fold the cheese mixture and crumbled bacon into the mashed potatoes until evenly distributed. Chop the green onions and fold them into the mixture as well.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve Warm:
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Make It Creamier: For an extra creamy texture, add more sour cream or cream cheese to the mashed potato mixture.
- Add a Kick: Spice up the dish by adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version of this casserole. You can also add diced mushrooms or caramelized onions for added flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
- Keto-Friendly Option: Replace the russet potatoes with cauliflower or turnips for a low-carb alternative. Use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon to reduce the fat content. Substitute almond milk for the whole milk and adjust the amount of sour cream and cream cheese to fit your macros.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Reduce the amount of potatoes and increase the proportion of cheese, cream cheese, and sour cream to create a lower-carb version of the casserole. You can also use a blend of cauliflower and broccoli florets for added fiber and nutrients.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it overnight. Simply cover it tightly with aluminum foil and bake it when ready to serve.
Q: Can I freeze leftover casserole? A: Absolutely! Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven.
Q: Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? A: Yes, feel free to experiment with different cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss for unique flavor combinations.
Q: Can I add other ingredients to the casserole? A: Certainly! You can customize the casserole by adding ingredients such as diced ham, chopped broccoli, or caramelized onions for added flavor and texture.
Elevate your comfort food game with our irresistible Mashed Potato Casserole recipe. With its creamy mashed potatoes, savory bacon, and gooey cheese, this casserole is the epitome of comfort and indulgence. Whether served as a side dish for holiday feasts or as a hearty main course for weeknight dinners, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to delight your taste buds with this mouthwatering Southern-inspired favorite!
