Loaded Mash Potato Casserole
INGREDIENTS
4 to 5 Pounds russet potatoes
1/2 Stick of butter in mash potatoes
4 Tablespoons butter (For Top)
8 Oz cream cheese, softened
1 Cup of milk
1 Tsp garlic powder and parsley flakes
1/2 Tsp each salt and pepper
Grated Parmesan
2 Cups shredded cheddar cheese
8 Pieces of bacon
Kosher salt
Green onion chopped
DIRECTIONS
🔥 Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Prep your potatoes peel, wash and chop potatoes. Salt and boil the potatoes in a large pot. When they are fork, tender, drain the potatoes.
Mash them with the butter, softened cream cheese, milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and parsley flakes.
Butter a 9x13 baking dish and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Once the potatoes are mashed add them on top of the Parmesan and even them out, add 4 tablespoons butter to the top.
🔥Bake at 350 degrees uncovered for 25 minutes. In the last 10 minutes add shredded cheese and bacon and place back in the oven till cheese is melted. Top with green onions and Munch!
Making a loaded mash potato casserole is a fantastic way to elevate traditional mashed potatoes into an impressive, hearty side dish. One tip I found helpful is to use russet potatoes because they create a fluffy, creamy texture that holds up well to baking and toppings. When preparing, don't skimp on the butter and cream cheese – these ingredients add rich flavor and smoothness that complements the sharpness of cheddar and the smokiness of bacon. For added depth, seasoning with garlic powder and parsley flakes transforms simple potatoes into a flavorful base. Sprinkle kosher salt while boiling the potatoes as well as after mashing to balance the dish. The Parmesan cheese layered under the potatoes helps create a slightly crispy, golden crust that contrasts nicely with the creamy mash. Baking at 350 degrees uncovered allows the top to brown beautifully while melting the shredded cheddar cheese perfectly over the bacon. Adding green onions at the end brings a fresh pop of color and a subtle onion sharpness that lightens this rich casserole. This casserole is convenient for holidays and potlucks because you can prepare it ahead, refrigerate, then bake before serving. Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day. Overall, this loaded mash potato casserole is a satisfying dish that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory elements into every bite — perfect for anyone who loves comforting, hearty meals.
