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Creamy Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole (Make-Ahead Option)

A scoop has been taken out of a baked mashed potato casserole topped with melted cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and green onions.
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This recipe creates a rich, cheesy mashed potato casserole that is perfect for holidays or family dinners. You can prepare it ahead of time for easy baking later.

Ingredients

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  • 3 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus extra for topping
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Place the peeled potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
  3. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the hot pot. Mash the potatoes until smooth.
  4. Add the warm milk, softened cream cheese, sour cream, melted butter, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix until everything is fully combined and creamy. Do not overmix.
  5. Gently fold in the crumbled bacon.
  6. Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  7. Top the casserole with an extra layer of shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese topping is melted and bubbly.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions.

Notes

  • For a make-ahead option, assemble the casserole completely, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, add about 10 to 15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it heats through completely.
  • You can substitute Monterey Jack cheese for some of the cheddar for a different flavor profile.
  • Use leftover mashed potatoes from a previous meal to speed up the preparation time.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://miameal.com/mashed-potato-casserole-recipe-easy-baked/