Description
This creamy Mashed Potato Casserole combines fluffy Idaho potatoes with rich cream cheese, sour cream, and butter for the ultimate comfort side dish. Topped with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, and finished with fresh chives, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Potato Base
- 5 lbs Idaho potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup milk
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 4 tbsp butter, room temperature
- 12 oz sour cream
- 2 ½ tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ cup chives, chopped
Toppings
- 16 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube the Idaho potatoes evenly. Place them in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are soft and easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot or place in a large mixing bowl. Add cream cheese, butter, sour cream, milk, kosher salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mash together until smooth and creamy. Stir in chopped chives evenly.
- Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mashed potato mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mashed potatoes. Then, scatter the cooked and chopped bacon strips over the cheese layer.
- Bake the Casserole: Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with additional chopped chives if desired, and serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash more milk or sour cream based on your preference.
- Make sure to use room temperature butter for easier mashing and better texture.
- Bacon can be substituted with turkey bacon or omitted for a lighter version.
- This casserole reheats well in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the mashed potatoes can add a lovely depth of flavor.
Keywords: mashed potato casserole, creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy potato bake, comfort food, holiday side dish, baked potatoes, bacon potato casserole