Loaded mashed potatoes are a comforting classic that never fails to impress. This dish combines the creamy, buttery goodness of traditional mashed potatoes with a delightful array of toppings, making it a favorite at family gatherings and holiday feasts. The history of loaded mashed potatoes can be traced back to the heart of American cuisine, where the humble potato has been transformed into a beloved side dish that brings warmth and joy to the table.

What I love most about loaded mashed potatoes is their incredible versatility. You can customize them with your favorite toppings, whether it’s crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, or fresh chives. The combination of flavors and textures creates a dish that is not only delicious but also visually appealing. Plus, they are incredibly convenient to prepare, making them a go-to option for busy weeknights or special occasions. Once you try this loaded mashed potatoes recipe, you’ll understand why it has earned a special place in the hearts of so many food lovers!

Ingredients:

2 pounds of russet potatoes
1/2 cup of sour cream
1/2 cup of cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup of milk (or more for desired consistency)
1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup of cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup of green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: additional cheese for topping

Preparing the Potatoes

1. Start by washing the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. I like to scrub them gently with a vegetable brush to ensure they’re clean. 2. Once washed, peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler. If you prefer a bit of texture, you can leave some of the skin on. 3. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches. This helps them cook evenly and faster. 4. Place the cut potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Make sure the water is about an inch above the potatoes. 5. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. This will help season the potatoes as they cook. 6. Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let the potatoes simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. You can test this by poking a potato chunk with a fork; it should slide in easily.

Mashing the Potatoes

7. Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and let them sit for a minute to allow excess moisture to evaporate. 8. Return the drained potatoes to the pot. This is where the magic happens! 9. Using a potato masher, start mashing the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. I like mine a bit chunky, but you can mash them until smooth if you prefer. 10. Add the melted butter, sour cream, cream cheese, and milk to the mashed potatoes. Stir everything together until well combined. If you want a creamier texture, feel free to add more milk, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. 11. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. I usually start with about a teaspoon of salt and a few cracks of black pepper, then adjust as needed.

Adding the Goodies

12. Now it’s time to fold in the fun ingredients! Add in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Gently mix everything together until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the potatoes. 13. Take a moment to taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This is your chance to make it just right!

Assembling the Loaded Mashed Potatoes

14. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that our loaded mashed potatoes get nice and warm throughout. 15. Transfer the loaded mashed potato mixture into a greased baking dish. I usually use a 9×13 inch dish, but any oven-safe dish will work. 16. If you want to add a little extra flair, sprinkle some additional shredded cheese on top. This will create a delicious cheesy crust as it bakes. 17. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you like a crispier top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving the Loaded Mashed Potatoes

18. Once the loaded mashed potatoes are out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes. This will help them set a bit and make serving easier. 19. Garnish with a few extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of paprika for a pop of color. 20. Serve the loaded mashed potatoes warm as a side dish or even as a main course. They pair wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even a simple salad. Enjoy your deliciously creamy and cheesy loaded mashed potatoes! They’re sure to be a hit at any gathering or family dinner.

Conclusion:

In summary, these loaded mashed potatoes are an absolute must-try for anyone looking to elevate their side dish game. The creamy texture combined with the savory toppings creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re serving them at a holiday gathering, a cozy family dinner, or just as a comforting weeknight meal, these potatoes are sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing them with grilled chicken, steak, or even a hearty vegetarian dish. You can also get creative with variations—try adding different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a spicy kick, or mix in some roasted garlic for an extra layer of flavor. The possibilities are endless! I encourage you to give this recipe a try and make it your own. Don’t forget to share your experience and any unique twists you come up with! I’d love to hear how your loaded mashed potatoes turn out. Happy cooking! Print