Mashed Potato Casserole

A comforting, cheesy mashed potato casserole loaded with bacon and green onions; perfect for gatherings, holidays, and hearty weeknight sides.

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Prep Time 35

Cook Time 25

Total Time 1

Servings

Calories 675kcal

Equipment

Ingredients

5 pounds potatoes peeled and cut into cubes
1 bay leaf
½ cup butter
1 cup sour cream
8 ounces cream cheese cut into pieces
¾ cup milk higher fat milk creates a creamy, rich flavor
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon sea salt or more to taste
Pepper to taste
1 pound sliced bacon cooked, chopped, and divided
2 cups cheddar cheese shredded, and divided
½ cup parmesan cheese shredded
½ cup crispy fried onions
Sliced green onions for garnish

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Instructions

Cook Potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain well and discard the bay leaf.
Mash Potatoes: Return hot potatoes to the pot. Add butter, sour cream, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy (a hand mixer makes them extra fluffy). Fold in half of the bacon, half the shredded cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Assemble Casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly into the dish. Top with the remaining half of the chopped bacon and cheddar cheese.
Bake: Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until heated through and cheese is melted and gooey.
Finish & Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle with crispy onions and green onions. Serve warm and thoroughly enjoy!

Notes

Drain potatoes thoroughly after boiling. Excess water can make the casserole runny.
Sharp white cheddar, Gruyère, or smoked gouda all work beautifully in this recipe.
This recipe feeds 10–12 people. Halve it for smaller gatherings or double it for holidays.
For an extra-crispy top, broil for 2–3 minutes after baking (watch closely!).
Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without toppings) a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate. Add at least 10 minutes to the baking time.

Nutritional information is approximate and was calculated using a recipe nutrition label generator and will vary based on cooking methods and brands of ingredients used. It does not include any toppings.

Nutrition