Why Make This Recipe
Loaded Mashed Potato Bake is a comforting dish that everyone loves. It combines the creamy goodness of mashed potatoes with crispy bacon and melted cheese. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a party, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just treating yourself and your family. It’s quick to prepare, and it often disappears from the table in minutes!
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Bake
Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp butter
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in half of the cheddar cheese, half of the bacon, and half of the green onions.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top.
- Dot the top with small pieces of butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with the rest of the green onions before serving.
How to Serve Loaded Mashed Potato Bake
Serve Loaded Mashed Potato Bake hot from the oven. It pairs well with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or just by itself as a hearty side dish. Add extra green onions or more cheese on top for a beautiful presentation.
How to Store Loaded Mashed Potato Bake
If you have leftovers, let the bake cool completely and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay good for about 3 to 4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Loaded Mashed Potato Bake
- Use fresh mashed potatoes for the best flavor, but leftover mashed potatoes work great too.
- For a creamier texture, add more sour cream or milk as needed.
- Don’t skip the butter on top—it adds great flavor and helps achieve that golden crust.
- Feel free to adjust the seasonings and toppings based on your taste preferences.
Variation
To mix things up, you can add different ingredients such as cooked broccoli, diced bell peppers, or even different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes can be used, but fresh or leftover mashed potatoes provide better texture and flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish a day before and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the bacon or replacing it with a plant-based bacon alternative.
Loaded Mashed Potato Bake
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (fresh or leftover) Use fresh mashed potatoes for the best flavor.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Reserve half for topping.
- 1/2 cup sour cream Add more for a creamier texture.
- 1/4 cup milk Adjust as needed for texture.
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled Reserve half for topping.
- 2 tablespoons green onions, chopped Reserve for garnish.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter Dot on top before baking.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, mix the mashed potatoes with sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in half of the cheddar cheese, half of the bacon, and half of the green onions.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 8x8 inch baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top.
- Dot the top with small pieces of butter and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Baking
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with the rest of the green onions before serving.