Ultimate Creamy Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: Your Go-To Crowd-Pleasing Side Dish
If you’re anything like me, you understand that potatoes are a culinary canvas with endless possibilities. From crispy fries to fluffy mashed potatoes, there’s truly no wrong way to enjoy them. This incredible potato casserole takes everything you love about a classic loaded baked potato and transforms it into an effortless, hearty, and utterly delicious side dish. It’s the perfect accompaniment for any meal, especially when you’re feeding a hungry crowd or celebrating a special occasion.
Imagine tender, perfectly mashed potatoes, generously blended with rich cream cheese, tangy Greek yogurt, savory butter, and a touch of heavy cream. Then, picture that creamy base loaded with sharp cheddar cheese and crispy, flavorful bacon. Baked to golden perfection, this casserole emerges from the oven bubbly, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy. It’s pure comfort food at its finest, designed to bring smiles to every table.
Why This Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole Will Be Your New Favorite
While classic mashed potatoes hold a special place in nearly every household, this casserole takes that beloved dish and elevates it to an entirely new level. It’s not just mashed potatoes; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that make it truly extraordinary. We’re talking about a generous “loading” with creamy ingredients and savory toppings that transform a simple side into a show-stopping dish.
Here’s why this recipe stands out:
- Unmatched Creaminess: The combination of cream cheese, Greek yogurt, butter, and heavy cream creates an unbelievably rich and velvety texture that melts in your mouth. Unlike plain mashed potatoes, this casserole maintains its creamy consistency, even after baking.
- Bursting with Flavor: Each spoonful delivers a delightful explosion of savory notes. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a robust, salty kick, while the crispy bacon pieces provide a smoky, irresistible crunch. A blend of garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and cumin adds depth and a subtle warmth, making every bite exciting.
- Perfect for a Crowd: This recipe is designed to serve many, making it ideal for potlucks, holiday feasts, family gatherings, or any event where you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing side dish. It’s easy to prepare in a large baking dish, simplifying meal prep for big events.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble this casserole ahead of time, which is a huge bonus when planning for busy holidays or parties. Just prepare it, chill it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve, allowing you more time to enjoy your guests.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy potato dish. This casserole offers the ultimate comfort, reminiscent of a fully loaded baked potato but with the added convenience and unified flavor of a casserole.
RELATED RECIPES: If you enjoy hearty casseroles, you might also love our Chicken Stuffing Casserole or this vibrant Broccoli Casserole.
Essential Ingredients for Your Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
Crafting the perfect loaded mashed potato casserole begins with selecting high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the incredible flavor and texture of this dish. While the full list with precise measurements is in the printable recipe card below, here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why:
- Russet Potatoes: These are the star of the show. Russet potatoes are famously starchy, which makes them ideal for mashing. They break down beautifully to create a fluffy, light, and absorbent base, perfect for soaking up all the rich dairy goodness. About 12 medium potatoes will give you the 5 pounds needed.
- Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese is a game-changer for mashed potatoes. It adds an unparalleled tanginess and a smooth, luxurious creaminess that traditional mashed potatoes often lack. Ensure it’s softened to blend seamlessly without lumps.
- Plain Greek Yogurt: This ingredient is a secret weapon. Greek yogurt contributes a subtle tang similar to sour cream but often with a thicker consistency and added protein. It lightens the richness of the other dairy while enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Salted Butter: Butter is essential for flavor and richness. Using salted butter adds another layer of seasoning, but you can adjust the added salt if you prefer unsalted butter.
- Heavy Whipping Cream: For ultimate indulgence, heavy cream helps achieve that desired silky-smooth texture and adds significant richness.
- Seasonings: Salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and cumin create a balanced and deeply savory flavor. The cayenne pepper adds just a hint of warmth, not overwhelming heat, complementing the other spices beautifully.
- Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is a classic for a reason. Sharp cheddar provides a robust, cheesy flavor that stands up to the other rich ingredients. Dividing the cheese allows for some to be incorporated into the mash and some to create a golden, bubbly crust on top.
- Cooked and Chopped Bacon: What’s a “loaded” potato dish without bacon? Crispy, salty bacon bits are folded into the potatoes and sprinkled on top for an irresistible smoky flavor and crunchy texture.
- Green Onions or Chives (Optional Garnish): These add a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a mild oniony flavor that beautifully contrasts the richness of the casserole.
How to Make the Best Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to guide you through making this irresistible recipe. For your convenience, you can Jump to Recipe to access the full printable version of this recipe, complete with precise measurements and instructions, located at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare Your Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking oil or butter. This ensures your delicious casserole won’t stick and makes for easier serving. Set it aside for later.
- Boil the Potatoes: Place your peeled and cubed russet potatoes in a large pot. Fill the pot with cold water, ensuring the potatoes are fully submerged by about an inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are perfectly fork-tender. They should be easily pierced with a fork but not falling apart.
- Mash to Perfection: Carefully drain the cooked potatoes thoroughly. Return them to the pot or transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes to your desired consistency. Some prefer a perfectly smooth mash, while others enjoy a few small lumps for texture. I personally lean towards a creamier texture, mashing until no lumps remain, which allows for a truly luxurious casserole.
- Incorporate the Richness: To the warm mashed potatoes, add the softened cream cheese, plain Greek yogurt, salted butter, heavy whipping cream, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. The residual heat from the potatoes will help the butter and cream cheese melt beautifully into the mixture. Stir well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and the mixture is smooth and evenly seasoned.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in 2 cups of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is fully incorporated and beginning to melt into the warm potato mixture. This step ensures cheesy goodness throughout every bite.
- Assemble the Casserole: Spread the creamy potato mixture evenly into your prepared 9×13 inch baking dish. Create a smooth top surface. Now, generously sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the cooked and chopped bacon bits. This creates a beautiful, golden, and crispy topping.
- Bake and Garnish: Place the assembled casserole in your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and lightly golden brown. The edges should be bubbling gently. For an optional touch of freshness and color, garnish with sliced green onions or chives just before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
Leftover loaded mashed potato casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave for individual portions or cover the entire dish with foil and reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. If the casserole has thickened too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of milk, heavy cream, or even a dollop of sour cream when reheating to help soften it back to a creamy consistency.
Absolutely! This casserole is an excellent make-ahead option, perfect for holiday meal prep or entertaining. For the best results, assemble the dish completely, up to the point where you would normally place it in the oven (before the final bake). Cover the uncooked casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes while your oven preheats. You may need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since the potatoes will be cold when they go into the oven. We recommend holding off on the final bacon and cheese topping until just before baking to ensure maximum crispness and meltiness.
This rich and flavorful loaded mashed potato casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a wide variety of main courses. It’s a fantastic side dish for special occasions or large dinners. I highly recommend serving it alongside:
- Hearty Meats: It’s a classic pairing with any beef dish, such as roast beef, meatloaf, or steak. It also complements various chicken recipes (like roasted chicken or grilled chicken breasts) or tender pork chops.
- Vegetables: Balance the richness with lighter vegetable sides like steamed green beans, roasted asparagus, or corn on the cob.
- Fresh Salads: A crisp, fresh salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
It’s truly a dish that can complete almost any meal!
While Russet potatoes are recommended for their starchy texture, which creates a fluffy mash, you can experiment with other varieties. Yukon Gold potatoes are also a great choice, offering a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture. Red potatoes can be used, but they tend to be waxier and might result in a slightly less fluffy mash. Avoid waxy potatoes like new potatoes if you’re aiming for a classic mashed potato consistency.
This recipe is highly adaptable! Here are a few ideas to customize your loaded mashed potato casserole:
- Spicy Kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for more heat. A dash of hot sauce in the mash can also work wonders.
- Herbaceous Freshness: Mix fresh chopped chives, parsley, or dill into the mashed potatoes for added brightness.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other cheeses like Colby Jack, Monterey Jack, Gruyere, or even a smoked cheddar for different flavor profiles.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon entirely for a delicious vegetarian side dish. You can add roasted garlic or a touch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Garlic Lover’s Dream: Roast a head of garlic, mash it, and stir it into the potatoes for an intense, sweet garlic flavor.
- Creamier Texture: For an even richer result, you can add a bit of cream cheese or heavy cream.
There’s simply nothing quite like a warm, cheesy, and savory potato casserole to bring everyone together. This Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to disappear quickly from any potluck, holiday table, or family dinner. With its creamy texture, rich flavors, and irresistible bacon and cheese topping, it embodies everything we love about hearty, comforting food. So, next time you’re looking for a side dish that will impress and satisfy, look no further than this fantastic recipe!
More Irresistible Potato Recipes You’ll Love
If you’re as passionate about potatoes as we are, you’re in for a treat! Discover more fantastic ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable with our collection of other beloved potato recipes:
- Easy Crockpot Mashed Potatoes
- Bacon Three Cheese Potatoes
- Classic Scalloped Potatoes
- Roasted Potatoes with Rosemary and Garlic
- Potatoes Au Gratin with Bacon and Leeks
- Comforting Funeral Potatoes
- Elegant Hasselback Potatoes
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Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 5 pounds russet potatoes peeled and cubed (about 12 medium potatoes)
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened and cubed
- ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ½ cup cup salted butter
- ¼ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cumin
- 3 cups shredded sharp cheddar divided
- ½ cup bacon cooked and chopped
- sliced green onion or chives Optional garnish
Things You’ll Need
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13×9 baking dish
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Potato Masher
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Spoon
Before You Begin
- The cream cheese and butter should melt into the warm, mashed potatoes mixture. You can melt your butter ahead of time to speed up the process.
- I prefer a creamier potato texture so I mashed the potatoes so that no more lumps remained. Feel free to leave in any lumps if that is your preference.
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and prepare a 9×13 baking dish by spraying it with cooking oil. Set aside.
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Place potatoes in a large pot with water and turn up heat to a boil. Boil for a few minutes and then turn the heat down to a simmer and cover. Let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fork tender.
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Once the potatoes are cooked through, drain and mash them into your favorite consistency.
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Stir in the cream cheese, plain Greek yogurt, butter, heavy cream, salt, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
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Add in 2 cups of the divided cheddar cheese and mix until combined.
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Spread the potato mixture evenly into the baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese, and cooked bacon.
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Place in the oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until bubbly. Garnish with green onions or chives, optional.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.