Loaded Baked Potato Casserole Holiday

One Easter brunch and I was in charge of bringing a side dish and I wanted something indulgent that everyone would enjoy. I didn’t want to fuss with individual potatoes and so I turned to a loaded baked potato casserole instead. The result? A bubbling dish of cheesy and creamy and bacon-loaded goodness that had people asking for seconds before the ham was even carved.

Now and this loaded baked potato casserole has become a family favorite for all kinds of holidays Christmas and Thanksgiving and even Fourth of July picnics. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and celebration and packed with flavor from gooey cheese and smoky bacon and tangy sour cream. Whether served as a side or the star and it never lasts long.

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Russet potatoes – The perfect starchy base that bakes up soft and hearty.
• Sour cream – Adds creaminess and tang to the casserole.
• Cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and gives the dish its signature cheesy pull.
• Cream cheese – Makes the filling ultra-smooth and rich.
• Bacon – Crispy and smoky and it adds a savory punch to every bite.
• Green onions – Add freshness and a pop of color on top.
• Butter – Helps create a velvety potato mixture.
• Salt – Enhances the flavor of every layer.
• Black pepper – Adds a little bite and warmth.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot – To boil the potatoes until they’re fork-tender.
• Potato masher – Helps mash the potatoes into a creamy base.
• Mixing bowl – Used to combine all the creamy and cheesy elements.
• Skillet – For crisping up the bacon.
• Baking dish – Holds all the layers together and goes right into the oven.
• Oven – Bakes the casserole until golden and bubbly.
• Spatula – Makes it easy to spread and serve the casserole.

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Potatoes

I start by peeling and chopping the potatoes and then boiling them in salted water until they’re tender and easy to mash.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon

While the potatoes cook and I fry the bacon in a skillet until crispy. I let it cool and then crumble it into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Make the Mixture

Once the potatoes are cooked and drained and I mash them with butter and sour cream and cream cheese and a bit of salt and pepper. Then I fold in half the cheddar cheese and some of the bacon bits.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

I spread the mashed mixture into a greased baking dish and then top it with the remaining cheese and bacon.

Step 5: Bake

I bake the casserole at 375°F for about 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly and slightly golden on top.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Just before serving and I sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh and colorful finish.

Tips

If I want to get ahead and I prep everything the day before and refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake. For an extra creamy version and I’ll sometimes add a splash of milk or a little more butter. And if I’m serving a crowd and I double the recipe – trust me and it disappears fast.

Ways to Serve

This loaded baked potato casserole is the perfect side for roast beef and ham or turkey at any holiday meal. It also makes a satisfying standalone dish when paired with a crisp salad or grilled vegetables. It’s even better the next day with a fried egg on top!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make loaded baked potato casserole ahead of time for a holiday dinner?

Yes and assemble it the day before and cover and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Can I use different types of cheese in loaded baked potato casserole?

Absolutely and I’ve used Monterey Jack and mozzarella or even a cheddar blend – they all melt beautifully.

How do I store and reheat leftovers of loaded baked potato casserole?

Store covered in the fridge and reheat in the oven or microwave until hot. Add a splash of milk if it needs moisture.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you bring this loaded baked potato casserole to your next holiday celebration! It’s cheesy and rich and filled with everything we love in a comforting dish. I’d love to hear how it turns out or what tasty twists you add!

Happy Cooking!

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