Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

If comfort had a taste, it would be this Loaded Baked Potato Casserole. Creamy, cheesy, buttery potatoes topped with crispy bacon, melty cheese, and fresh green onions—this dish is pure indulgence.

Whether it’s a family dinner, a potluck, or just a night when you need something extra comforting, this casserole delivers big flavors with minimal effort. And guess what?

It’s ridiculously easy to make. So grab your potatoes and let’s do this!

How to Make it

Note: This is an overview. See recipe card below this post for ingredient quantities and full instructions.

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
Start by preheating your oven and scrubbing your potatoes clean. Place them directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for even cooking. Bake until they are fork-tender—this step ensures that your casserole has the rich, deep flavor of a classic baked potato.

Once baked, let them cool just enough to handle. You can either peel them for an ultra-creamy texture or leave the skins on for a rustic feel. Then, mash them in a large mixing bowl until they’re light and fluffy.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
While the potatoes are still warm, mix in melted butter, sour cream, and a splash of milk. Stir everything together until you get a smooth and creamy consistency. The butter should melt into the potatoes, creating a velvety base.

Season with salt, pepper, and an optional pinch of garlic powder for extra flavor. Keep stirring until everything is well combined. The mixture should be thick but spreadable—adjust with a little more milk if needed.

Step 3: Load It Up with Flavor
Now it’s time to add the good stuff! Fold in shredded cheese and crispy bacon bits, ensuring that every bite is packed with smoky, cheesy goodness. Give everything a good stir to evenly distribute the mix-ins.

If you like a little extra bite, you can add finely chopped green onions at this stage, though they’ll also make a great garnish later.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Grease a large baking dish to prevent sticking, then spread the creamy, cheese-filled potato mixture evenly into the dish. Use a spatula to smooth the top so it bakes evenly. Now, for the finishing touch—sprinkle more shredded cheese and bacon crumbles over the top.

As it bakes, the cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly layer, locking in all that flavor. Bake until everything is heated through and the cheese on top is perfectly melted and slightly golden at the edges.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once your casserole is hot and bubbly, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes—this helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier. Sprinkle fresh chopped green onions over the top for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Serve warm with a dollop of sour cream on the side, or drizzle extra melted butter for an indulgent touch. Grab a spoon and dig in—every bite is creamy, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible!

Pro Tips

• Use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes for the creamiest texture.
• Shred your own cheese! Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Want extra flavor? Add a little garlic powder or smoked paprika to the mashed potatoes.
• For an extra crispy topping, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole a day before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake when ready!

Storage

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe dish. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
  

Print Recipe

Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

Cooking Method: Baking Cuisine: American Favorites Courses: Main Courses, Side Dishes

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 55 mins

Servings: 8 Calories: 350

Best Season: Fall, Winter

Dietary:

Gluten Free Nut Free

Description

This Loaded Baked Potato Casserole takes everything you love about a classic baked potato and turns it into a creamy, cheesy, and ultra-comforting dish.

Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you need a hearty side that’s packed with flavor!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 4 large russet potatoes, baked & mashed

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup sour cream

• ¹⁄₂ cup whole milk

• 1 tsp salt

• ¹⁄₂ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp garlic powder (optional)

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 6 slices bacon, cooked & crumbled

• ¹⁄₄ cup chopped green onions

Instructions

1. Bake the Potatoes:

   Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake potatoes for 50-60 minutes or until fork-tender. Cool slightly, peel (optional), and mash.

2. Prepare the Base:

   In a large bowl, mix mashed potatoes, melted butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Load with Cheese & Bacon:

   Fold in 1½ cups of shredded cheese and half the crumbled bacon.

4. Assemble & Bake:

   Spread into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Top with remaining cheese and bacon. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes until bubbly.

5. Garnish & Serve:

   Sprinkle with green onions and serve with extra sour cream. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 350kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 22g34%

Total Carbohydrate 28g10%

Protein 12g24%

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* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

• For extra creaminess, add ½ cup cream cheese to the potatoes.
• Swap bacon for cooked sausage or ham for a twist!
• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter version.

These values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands used. Always check your ingredient labels for precise nutrition details.

Keywords: potato casserole, baked potato, cheesy potatoes, comfort food