Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

I can’t wait to share this Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe with you—it’s one of those dishes that instantly feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re bringing it to a family potluck, making holiday dinner extra memorable, or just craving something indulgent and comforting on a regular weeknight, this casserole hits all the right notes. The mix of creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon is downright addicting.

What really makes this cheesy bacon mashed potato casserole recipe stand out for me is how easy it is to prepare yet so impressive at the table. You get that luscious texture from the cream cheese and sour cream, balanced perfectly with savory seasonings and fresh chives. Plus, it’s one of the rare recipes where leftovers practically disappear overnight—trust me, you’ll want to make extra!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every single ingredient in this recipe plays a role in making the casserole creamy, flavorful, and satisfyingly cheesy. I recommend sourcing fresh Idaho potatoes because their high starch content makes the creamiest mash. Also, grab good quality sharp cheddar—it really elevates the flavor.

• Idaho potatoes: Their starchy texture makes for the fluffiest mashed potatoes, essential for a smooth casserole base.
• Milk: Use whole milk if you can for extra richness; it helps keep the potatoes moist and creamy.
• Cream cheese: Adds tangy creaminess and helps bind everything together beautifully.
• Butter: Real butter at room temperature melts perfectly into the potatoes, boosting flavor.
• Sour cream: This gives that signature creamy tang we love in mashed potatoes and adds moisture.
• Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning—don’t skip or under-measure! It brings out all the flavors.
• Pepper: Adds a subtle kick and balances the richness.
• Garlic powder: Enhances savory depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Chives: Fresh chives add a mild onion flavor and a pop of green color.
• Cheddar cheese (shredded): Sharp cheddar melts into gooey deliciousness, giving a cheesy crust on top.
• Bacon: Crispy cooked bacon strips add irresistible smoky crunch. I recommend cooking it extra crispy for texture contrast.

Variations

I love making this cheesy bacon mashed potato casserole recipe my own by tweaking a few ingredients based on the season or what’s in my fridge. You should definitely feel free to personalize it to fit your taste or dietary needs.

• Vegetarian version: Simply omit the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra savoriness. I’ve done this for meatless Monday dinners and it’s just as satisfying.
• Extra cheesy: If you’re like me and can’t get enough cheese, double the cheddar cheese—mix some into the potatoes and sprinkle generously on top.
• Herb swap: Instead of chives, try fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. I once added rosemary and it was surprisingly delightful!
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne or some chopped jalapeños mixed in if you enjoy a little heat.

How to Make Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Perfectly Cook Your Idaho Potatoes

Start by peeling and cubing your Idaho potatoes—aim for uniform pieces for even cooking. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water to prevent the starch from gelatinizing prematurely. Bring to a boil and simmer until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Test by piercing a cube; it should slide off the fork easily without falling apart.

Step 2: Mash With Love and Creaminess

Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the warm pot to evaporate any excess moisture for 1-2 minutes on low heat. This is my go-to tip for fluffier mash! Then, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the cream cheese, butter, and sour cream. Mix gently but thoroughly until silky smooth. Pour in the milk gradually and continue mixing until the texture is creamy without being runny.

Step 3: Season and Mix in Freshness

Sprinkle in kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Fold in most of the chopped chives, saving some for garnish. Taste and adjust seasoning—this step is crucial for making sure your casserole isn’t bland.

Step 4: Assemble With Cheese and Bacon Love

Transfer your creamy mashed potatoes to a buttered casserole dish and smooth the top. Spread the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface, then sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces on top. For an extra melty topping, add a little more cheese on the very top.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye on it during the last 10 minutes to avoid burning the bacon. When ready, let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set up nicely.

How to Serve Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

I always sprinkle fresh chopped chives on top—it adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh oniony note that cuts through all the richness. Sometimes, I add a few thin slices of green onion for extra crunch and flavor.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs beautifully with simple green veggies like steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus to lighten the plate. For protein, I usually serve it alongside roast chicken or pork chops to round out the meal. You can’t go wrong with a crisp salad either.

Creative Ways to Present

One time for a holiday gathering, I made individual cheesy bacon mashed potato casseroles in small ramekins. It made the presentation feel special and elegant, plus it helped with portion control. Another fun idea is layering the potatoes, cheese, and bacon like a lasagna for impressive stacked slices.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The casserole holds up remarkably well—just keep it covered so it doesn’t dry out. Before reheating, I like to let it come to room temperature briefly for more even warming.

Freezing

I’ve frozen this cheesy bacon mashed potato casserole successfully, though I recommend undercooking slightly before freezing to avoid overbaking later. Wrap the dish tightly in foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, usually about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. For quick reheats, I use the microwave but add a splash of milk and cover loosely with a lid to retain moisture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This cheesy bacon mashed potato casserole recipe holds a special place in my heart because it always brings people together around the table. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to whatever ingredients or tastes you prefer. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do—it’s truly one of those dishes that feels like home in every bite. So, grab your potatoes and get ready for some serious comfort food happiness!

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