Loaded Cheddar Mashed Potato Casserole

Loaded Cheddar Mashed Potato Casserole is all about comfort and celebration in one warm dish It is my go-to recipe for holiday gatherings potlucks or any night when you want mashed potatoes to steal the show Rich with cheddar and loaded toppings this bake satisfies every craving for cheesy hearty potato goodness

You get creamy mashed potato texture with a bubbly browned cheese crust I started making this casserole on Thanksgiving years ago It disappeared before the turkey was carved and now family asks for it on any occasion

Ingredients

• Yukon Gold potatoes: add a naturally buttery flavor and creamy texture Choose firm unblemished potatoes for best results
• Sharp cheddar cheese: gives bold cheesy taste and melts well Freshly shredded cheese blends best for a silky result
• Full-fat sour cream: ensures the filling stays rich and tangy Look for thick sour cream for structure
• Butter: delivers classic mashed potato richness Use unsalted to control seasoning
• Whole milk: helps loosen and cream the mash Try to use high-quality milk for extra flavor
• Crispy bacon: adds smokiness and crunch Cook bacon until golden and chop just before adding for best texture
• Fresh chives: give a pop of color and fresh onion flavor Use snipped chives just before serving for brightness
• Kosher salt: seasons evenly without bitterness Taste and adjust after mixing
• Fresh ground black pepper: accents the potatoes with subtle heat Use a coarse grind for best flavor

Instructions

Boil and Prep the Potatoes:

Peel and chop your Yukon Gold potatoes into even chunks Place in a large pot and cover with cold water Bring to a gentle boil and cook until fork-tender about seventeen minutes Drain well so mashed potatoes stay fluffy

Mash and Mix:

Transfer hot potatoes to a large bowl Start mashing using a potato masher or ricer While the potatoes are steaming add butter and mash until mostly smooth Pour in warm milk and sour cream Mix in cheddar cheese half the bacon salt and pepper Keep mashing until creamy lumps just disappear but avoid overbeating so the texture stays light

Bake the Casserole:

Spoon the potato mixture into a greased casserole dish Spread gently to keep fluffiness Top evenly with remaining cheddar cheese and sprinkle over the rest of the bacon Bake at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit for twenty five to thirty minutes until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown

Finish and Garnish:

Let casserole cool five minutes before serving Sprinkle with snipped chives just before bringing to the table for color and fresh flavor

Save

Cheddar cheese in this casserole holds a special place for me It always reminds me of the holidays growing up and sitting around the table with a bubbling cheesy potato bake at the center My little nephew once called it magic potatoes because every bite tasted different with all those layers of topping

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool completely Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to four days Reheat in portions or whole casserole using oven or microwave For longer storage freeze baked casserole in airtight containers up to two months Thaw overnight and heat until bubbling

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream to lighten the dish Try Monterey Jack or Fontina instead of classic cheddar for a milder or nuttier flavor If you want vegetarian skip bacon and add crispy fried onions or sautéed mushrooms

Serving Suggestions

Serve with roasted chicken or ham for a festive meal Make it a main course with a big green salad or steamed veggies For breakfast leftovers top with a fried egg for ultimate comfort

Cultural and Historical Context

Loaded potato casseroles have roots in American comfort cooking The combo of mashed potatoes cheese and bacon echoes classic Midwest table traditions These casseroles became popular in mid twentieth century when home cooks wanted homestyle side dishes that fed a crowd

Seasonal Adaptations

In spring add fresh peas or asparagus tips to the mash For fall try mixing in roasted butternut squash or caramelized onions Winter holidays call for extra topping of crispy shallots or rosemary

Success Stories

Friends make this casserole for potlucks and say it never lasts more than an hour Kids go back for seconds and thirds One reader told me she uses it as the centerpiece for her holiday buffet with rave reviews

Freezer Meal Conversion

Assemble casserole as directed but do not bake Cover tightly and freeze Bake straight from freezer at three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit adding ten to fifteen extra minutes to bake time Cheese stays gooey and potatoes creamy

Save

This casserole is always the first to disappear at parties It is easy to make and even easier to enjoy by the spoonful

Kitchen Q&A

→ How do I make mashed potatoes smooth?

Use a potato masher or ricer and add warm milk and butter gradually, mixing until creamy.

→ What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds robust flavor, but mild cheddar or Colby can be substituted.

→ Can I prepare this casserole ahead?

Yes, assemble in advance, refrigerate covered, and bake just before serving for best texture.

→ What toppings can I add?

Try crispy bacon, sliced green onions, extra cheese, or even sour cream to enhance flavor and texture.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Omit bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly casserole.