Baked Potato Casserole with Bacon: A Cheesy, Creamy Delight! 🥓🥔🧀

Introduction
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients Needed
Step-by-Step Instructions
Tips for the Best Potato Casserole
Variations & Add-Ons
Serving Suggestions
Storing & Reheating Instructions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Introduction

If you love loaded baked potatoes, this Baked Potato Casserole with Bacon is a must-try! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with crispy bacon, making it the perfect comfort food. This casserole is great for family dinners, potlucks, holidays, and even meal prep. Every bite is filled with rich, satisfying flavors that will have everyone coming back for more!

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Easy to Make – Simple prep, then bake!
✔️ Cheesy & Creamy – Packed with cheddar, sour cream, and butter.
✔️ Bacon Lovers’ Dream – Crispy, smoky bacon in every bite.
✔️ Perfect for Any Occasion – Great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a casual dinner.
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Can be prepared ahead of time and baked later.

3. Ingredients Needed

For the Casserole:

4 large russet potatoes (or 6 medium), peeled and cubed
1 cup sour cream
½ cup milk (whole milk or heavy cream for extra richness)
4 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra gooeyness)
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
2 green onions, finely chopped

For Topping:

½ cup cheddar cheese
2 slices bacon, crumbled
2 tablespoons chopped green onions

4. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes

Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with water.
Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil.
Cook for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender, then drain well.

Step 3: Mash & Mix

In a large bowl, mash the potatoes using a potato masher or electric mixer.
Add sour cream, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
Fold in 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, mozzarella (if using), crumbled bacon, and green onions.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Top with remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and extra crumbled bacon.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a golden brown top, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.

Step 6: Garnish & Serve

Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
Serve hot and enjoy the cheesy, bacon-packed goodness!

5. Tips for the Best Potato Casserole

✅ Use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes – They create the creamiest texture.
✅ For extra richness, use heavy cream instead of milk.
✅ Don’t overmix – This keeps the potatoes fluffy instead of gummy.
✅ For a crispier topping, add a layer of buttered breadcrumbs before baking.
✅ Make it extra cheesy – Add Parmesan or Monterey Jack cheese for more depth.

6. Variations & Add-Ons

🔥 Spicy Kick – Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
🧄 Garlic Lovers – Use roasted garlic instead of garlic powder.
🥦 Veggie Loaded – Mix in broccoli, spinach, or caramelized onions.
🍗 Protein Boost – Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken for a complete meal.
🍄 Mushroom & Bacon – Sauté mushrooms and mix them in for extra umami flavor.

7. Serving Suggestions

This Baked Potato Casserole with Bacon pairs perfectly with:
🥩 Grilled steak or roasted chicken
🥦 Steamed or roasted vegetables
🍞 Garlic bread or dinner rolls
🥗 A fresh green salad

It’s also a great side dish for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas!

8. Storing & Reheating Instructions

Storing:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.

Reheating:

Oven: Cover with foil and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.
Microwave: Heat individual portions for 1-2 minutes until warm.
Air Fryer: Reheat at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for a crispy top.

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

2. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Fresh potatoes give the best texture, but instant mashed potatoes can work in a pinch.

3. What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but you can mix in mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for extra cheesiness.

4. How do I make this casserole lighter?

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Reduce the butter and use low-fat cheese.
Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.

5. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Assemble the casserole in a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 3-4 hours or HIGH for 2 hours.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Potato Casserole with Bacon is the ultimate comfort food, packed with cheesy, creamy, and smoky flavors that everyone will love. Whether for a family dinner, holiday feast, or potluck, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

🔥 Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! 🥓🥔🧀✨

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