Looking for a dish that brings warmth and joy to your table? This Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is easy to make and perfect for every occasion. With creamy potatoes, savory cheese, and crispy turkey bacon, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Follow along as I share the simple steps and tips to whip up this comfort food classic. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that warms the heart!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comfort Food Classic: This casserole combines all the comforting flavors of a baked potato in one easy dish.
- Customizable Ingredients: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your dietary needs or preferences.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe serves a crowd, making it ideal for potlucks and family dinners.
- Leftover Friendly: It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers without losing any flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and diced
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
– 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon
Seasoning and Additional Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Toppings
– Additional cheddar cheese for topping
– Extra green onions for garnish
The heart of this Loaded Baked Potato Casserole lies in its simple yet rich ingredients. Start with four large russet potatoes. These potatoes are perfect for a fluffy, hearty base. Scrub them well, then dice them into even pieces. This ensures they cook evenly.
Next, the creamy blend of sour cream and cream cheese adds a delightful tang. The sour cream gives it a nice zesty flavor, while the cream cheese brings in creaminess. You’ll want one cup of each.
Cheddar cheese is a must-have for that classic baked potato taste. Use one cup of shredded cheddar and save some for topping. This cheese melts beautifully and makes the casserole ooey-gooey.
For a touch of freshness and crunch, add a quarter cup of chopped green onions. They add a nice burst of flavor. Don’t forget about the bacon! Half a cup of cooked and crumbled turkey bacon gives a savory twist. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute it with vegetable bacon.
Now, let’s spice it up! One teaspoon of garlic powder and one teaspoon of onion powder enhance the flavors. Salt and pepper will help to balance everything out. For added creaminess, include half a cup of milk. And a tablespoon of olive oil will keep things moist and flavorful.
Finally, a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese and more green onions on top turns this dish into a feast for the eyes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– In a large pot, boil salted water. Cook the diced potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Then, drain the potatoes and set them aside.
Mixing Ingredients
– In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream, 1/2 cup of softened cream cheese, and 1/2 cup of milk. Mix well until smooth.
– Next, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in most of the chopped green onions, saving some for later.
Assembling the Casserole
– Carefully fold the cooked potatoes and crumbled turkey bacon into the mixture, coating them evenly.
– Lightly grease a baking dish with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Spoon the potato mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
– Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top of the mixture.
Baking Instructions
– Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
– After that, uncover the dish and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
– Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with the reserved green onions.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Ensure potatoes are fork-tender before mixing. This step helps them blend well with the other ingredients. If they are not tender, the casserole may end up chunky instead of creamy.
– Use a mix of cheeses for added flavor. Cheddar is great, but adding mozzarella or pepper jack can make it even better. Mixing cheeses creates a richer taste.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream. This adds a cool and creamy contrast to the warm casserole.
– Garnish plates with green onions. They add a nice crunch and a burst of color to the dish.
Perfecting the Texture
– Allow to cool slightly before serving. This helps the casserole set and makes it easier to serve.
– Bake until bubbly for best results. A golden top shows that your casserole is ready and adds a tasty crunch.
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Use russet potatoes for a fluffy texture, but Yukon Golds can also work well for creaminess.
- Mix Cheeses: For an extra cheesy flavor, consider blending different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Gouda with the cheddar.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like jalapeños, olives, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing before serving.
- Make It Ahead: Prepare the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when you’re ready to serve.
Variations
Vegetarian Options
You can make this dish vegetarian-friendly. Instead of using turkey bacon, you can try vegetable bacon. It tastes great and still gives that smoky flavor. You can also add some veggies like broccoli or bell peppers. These add color, texture, and nutrients to your casserole.
Different Toppings
Feel free to play around with toppings. You can use other cheeses, like mozzarella, for a different taste. Mozzarella melts nicely and adds a gooey texture. Another fun idea is to add a layer of breadcrumbs on top. This gives your casserole a nice crunch.
Spice it Up
If you like heat, you can add jalapeños or spicy cheese. This will give your dish a kick! You can also mix in spices like paprika or cayenne. These spices can enhance the flavor and make your casserole more exciting.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
After enjoying your loaded baked potato casserole, store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. It’s best to let it cool before sealing. This way, you avoid extra moisture in the container.
Freezing Instructions
You can freeze your casserole for later. Freeze it before baking for best results. You can also freeze it after it’s fully cooked. Use freezer-safe containers to keep it fresh. Make sure to label the containers with the date. This helps you keep track of how long it’s been frozen.
Reheating Tips
To enjoy that crispy texture, reheat the casserole in the oven. Set the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat until warm throughout. This method keeps the top nice and crunchy. If you need a quick option, use a microwave. Just heat it in short bursts, checking often to avoid overheating.
FAQs
How long does it take to make Loaded Baked Potato Casserole?
It takes about 60 minutes to make this dish. You need 15 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to cook. The prep includes washing and chopping potatoes and mixing ingredients. The cooking part involves baking until golden brown and bubbly.
Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this casserole ahead of time. Make it up to a day in advance. Just follow the recipe until the baking step. Cover it tightly and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, take it out and let it sit for a bit. Then, bake it as directed.
What can I serve with Loaded Baked Potato Casserole?
This casserole pairs well with many dishes. You can serve it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. Grilled chicken or steak also makes a great side. Don’t forget some bread rolls for a complete meal!
How do I adjust the recipe for a different serving size?
Adjusting the recipe is simple. If you need more servings, double the ingredients. If you want fewer servings, cut the amounts in half. Keep the cooking time the same, but check for doneness. You want that top to be golden and bubbly.
This Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is simple and tasty. We started with russet potatoes, sour cream, and cheese, mixing them well. I shared extra tips to make your dish perfect, like letting it cool a bit before serving. You can customize it with different toppings and flavors too. Store leftovers easily, and reheat for a quick meal. Enjoy this dish at your next gathering; it’s sure to be a hi
