Save This loaded baked potato casserole transforms everyone's favorite potato topping combination into a crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for family gatherings and potlucks. The creamy, cheesy potatoes paired with crispy bacon and fresh scallions create the ultimate comfort food experience in casserole form.
I created this recipe when hosting a large family gathering where I needed something substantial that could be prepared ahead of time. The empty dish and multiple recipe requests at the end of the night confirmed it was a winner, and it's now requested at nearly every family function.
Ingredients
- Russet potatoes: These starchy potatoes create the perfect fluffy texture when mashed and hold up well in a casserole
- Sour cream: Adds tanginess and creaminess that makes the casserole truly indulgent
- Cream cheese: Creates an ultra smooth and velvety texture throughout the casserole
- Whole milk: Helps achieve the perfect consistency without making the mixture too runny
- Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar provides the classic loaded potato flavor profile look for aged cheddar for best flavor
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and allows you to control the salt level separately
- Bacon: Provides smoky flavor and crispy texture contrast use thick cut for best results
- Scallions: Adds fresh flavor and color choose bright green firm scallions for best results
- Garlic and onion powders: Provides savory depth without the texture of fresh garlic or onions
- Salt and pepper: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes:
- Fill a large pot with cold salted water and add your potato cubes. Starting with cold water ensures even cooking throughout. Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer for 15-20 minutes. Test doneness by easily piercing with a fork. Drain thoroughly in a colander to prevent a watery casserole.
- Create the creamy base:
- While potatoes are still hot, add butter, cream cheese, and sour cream to the pot. The residual heat helps melt these ingredients for smoother incorporation. Mash thoroughly until no lumps remain, taking care not to overmix which can make potatoes gummy.
- Mix in the flavorings:
- Gently fold in milk, most of the cheese, bacon, scallions, and seasonings. The warm potatoes will slightly melt the cheese creating pockets of gooey goodness throughout. Taste and adjust seasonings as this is your last chance to perfect the flavor.
- Assemble and bake:
- Transfer the mixture to your greased baking dish, spreading evenly to the corners. Sprinkle remaining cheese and bacon on top ensuring complete coverage for that perfect golden crust. Bake uncovered at 375°F until bubbling around the edges and golden on top, approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Rest and garnish:
- Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes after removing from the oven. This helps the casserole set slightly making serving easier. Sprinkle fresh scallions over the top just before serving for bright color, flavor and textural contrast.
Pin it The cream cheese is truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. I discovered its transformative power by accident when I was short on sour cream one day. The resulting texture was so velvety smooth that it's become non-negotiable in my version. My grandmother always said a potato dish is only as good as its creaminess, and this one would certainly make her proud.
Make It Your Own
This casserole is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use reduced-fat cheese. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, simply omit the bacon and add roasted vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms. You can also add protein by mixing in shredded rotisserie chicken or ground turkey for a complete one-dish meal.
Storage and Reheating
The casserole keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. For best results when reheating, let it come to room temperature for about 20 minutes before placing in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the texture won't be quite as good as oven reheating. If you find the casserole has dried out slightly, drizzle a little milk over the top before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole works wonderfully alongside a variety of main dishes. Serve it with grilled steak for a steakhouse-inspired meal, or pair it with a simple green salad for a lighter dinner. It's also perfect for holiday meals alongside roasted turkey or ham. For a fun presentation at parties, consider serving individual portions in small ramekins or twice-baked potato style by refilling potato skins with the casserole mixture.
Seasonal Variations
Summer Add fresh corn kernels and diced bell peppers for a garden fresh twist
Fall Mix in roasted butternut squash cubes and sage for autumnal flavor
Winter Incorporate caramelized onions and thyme for deeper comfort food vibes
Spring Fold in fresh peas and dill for brightness
Pin it This casserole is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it a perfect comforting side dish or a satisfying main course.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish up to baking, then cover and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Add 10–15 minutes to the baking time when ready to cook.
- → What other cheeses can I use?
Mix in Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of your favorites for extra flavor.
- → How can I make this vegetarian?
Omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or broccoli for a satisfying meatless version.
- → Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as all processed ingredients, especially bacon and cheese, are certified gluten-free.
- → How do I get the creamiest potatoes?
Mash the potatoes while hot and mix in butter, cream cheese, and sour cream for a silky texture.
- → Can I add other seasonings?
Try smoked paprika, chives, or fresh herbs to enhance the dish’s flavor profile.