Description
This comforting Mashed Potato Casserole combines creamy mashed potatoes with rich cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar cheese, topped with crispy bacon and fresh chives for a savory, indulgent side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potato Base
- 5 lbs Idaho potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 4 tbsp butter, room temperature
- 12 oz sour cream
- 2 ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup chives, chopped
Topping
- 16 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube the Idaho potatoes into even pieces to ensure they cook uniformly. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes well and return them to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add the cream cheese, butter, and milk while the potatoes are still hot to help achieve a creamy texture. Mash until smooth and well combined.
- Add Seasonings and Sour Cream: Stir in the sour cream, kosher salt, pepper, garlic powder, and chopped chives. Mix thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients evenly, creating a flavorful and creamy mashed potato mixture.
- Preheat the Oven and Prepare Casserole Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by the chopped crispy bacon strips.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on the edges, and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving to let the casserole set for easier portioning. Garnish with additional fresh chives if desired.
Notes
- For extra richness, substitute whole milk with half-and-half or heavy cream.
- Bacon can be substituted with cooked pancetta or omitted for a vegetarian version.
- To make ahead, prepare the mashed potatoes and layering the casserole, then cover and refrigerate before baking.
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded options.
Keywords: Mashed potato casserole, cheesy mashed potatoes, baked potato side dish, comforting casserole, bacon and cheddar potatoes