Description
Creamy and cheesy loaded mashed potatoes featuring sour cream, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. This comforting dish is perfect as a side or main course, guaranteed to impress at any gathering!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Scrub gently with a vegetable brush if needed.
- Peel the potatoes using a vegetable peeler. For added texture, you can leave some skin on.
- Cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks, about 1 to 2 inches.
- Place the cut potatoes into a large pot and cover with cold water, ensuring the water is about an inch above the potatoes.
- Add a generous pinch of salt to the water.
- Bring the pot to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Drain the cooked potatoes in a colander and let sit for a minute to evaporate excess moisture.
- Return the drained potatoes to the pot.
- Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes to your desired consistency.
- Add melted butter, sour cream, cream cheese, and milk to the mashed potatoes. Stir until well combined, adding more milk for a creamier texture if desired.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions. Mix until the cheese is melted and evenly distributed.
- Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the loaded mashed potato mixture into a greased baking dish (9×13 inch or any oven-safe dish).
- Optionally, sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top for a cheesy crust.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes for a crispier top, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Let the loaded mashed potatoes cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with extra chopped green onions or a sprinkle of paprika for color.
- Serve warm as a side dish or main course, pairing wonderfully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the toppings with your favorite ingredients, such as jalapeños for a spicy kick or different types of cheese.
- These loaded mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated in the oven before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes