If you are craving something that wraps comfort, flavor, and a bit of indulgence all in one dish, you absolutely must try this Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe. This crowd-pleaser combines creamy mashed potatoes with rich cream cheese, tangy sour cream, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon, baked to cheesy golden perfection. It’s truly a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner or bringing a side to the next holiday feast, this casserole always steals the show.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, quality ingredients is what makes this Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe so spectacular. Each item plays a key role—potatoes provide the hearty base, cream cheese and sour cream add luscious creaminess, butter and milk smooth it all out, while garlic and onion powders bring savory depth. Finally, sharp cheddar and smoky bacon top it off with irresistible richness and crunch.
- 3 pounds potatoes (peeled and cubed): Yukon Gold potatoes are perfect for mashing, offering a buttery texture and flavor.
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened: Adds a velvety, tangy richness that transforms the potatoes.
- ½ cup sour cream: Brings a creamy tartness that balances the dish brilliantly.
- ½ cup butter, cubed: Ensures smoothness and a delicious buttery flavor in every bite.
- ¼ cup milk: Helps achieve that perfect mashed potato consistency without heaviness.
- 1 tsp onion powder: Provides a subtle savory note, enhancing the overall depth.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses warm, aromatic undertones throughout the casserole.
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste): Essential for bringing out every nuance of flavor.
- ½ tsp pepper (or to taste): Adds just enough peppery spice to round out the taste.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts over the potatoes, creating a wonderfully cheesy topping.
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped: Crispy bacon adds that irresistible salty crunch and smoky flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing your peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes into a large pot and cover them generously with water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low, letting the potatoes cook gently until they are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. This step ensures your potatoes will mash easily while retaining their creamy character.
Step 2: Mash and Mix the Creamy Ingredients
Once your potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot. Now the magic begins: mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, then stir in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cubes of butter. Each of these ingredients melts into the potatoes, creating a velvety base that’s rich without being heavy. Follow with milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mixing everything until perfectly combined. This step ensures every bite bursts with flavor and silky texture.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your decadent mashed potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Finish by scattering the chopped, crispy bacon across the surface. Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate it if you’re not baking immediately—this not only helps the flavors meld but makes it a great make-ahead option.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350ºF. Remove the casserole from the fridge and take off the foil. Bake uncovered for 40 to 50 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into bubbling, golden glory and the bacon to heat through. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be nothing short of irresistible.
How to Serve Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A little fresh garnish goes a long way to brighten this rich casserole. Sprinkle chopped fresh chives or green onions on top for a pop of color and a subtle oniony crunch. A dollop of sour cream or a few extra crispy bacon bits can also add that extra tasty flourish that makes the presentation as inviting as the first bite.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes. Consider serving it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or glazed ham for a hearty, satisfying meal. For lighter fare, a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans add freshness and balance to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make the dish even more special? Try serving individual portions in ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a rustic yet elegant touch. You can also layer the casserole with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions beneath the cheese and bacon topping for extra layers of flavor and texture that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The casserole actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld and deepen, making it perfect for quick reheats or packed lunches.
Freezing
This Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe freezes wonderfully. After baking and completely cooling, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or transfer servings to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
For the best reheating results, warm your casserole in a 350ºF oven until heated through to maintain that lovely baked crust and gooey cheese topping. If reheating from frozen, allow extra time and keep the dish covered with foil to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of potato for this casserole?
Absolutely! While Yukon Golds offer superb buttery flavor and texture, Russet potatoes also work nicely, though they are a bit fluffier. Just be sure to mash them well for creamy consistency.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian bacon substitute or crispy smoked tempeh for that smoky crunch without meat.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance for a holiday meal?
Definitely. The recipe actually shines as a make-ahead dish. Assemble it the day before, refrigerate, and then bake just before serving for maximum convenience and flavor.
What can I substitute for sour cream if I don’t have any on hand?
Greek yogurt makes a great substitute, offering similar creaminess and a touch of tang. Just use the same amount as sour cream called for in the recipe.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, swap the butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and cheddar with your favorite plant-based alternatives. The texture might vary slightly, but it will still be deliciously comforting and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe is a total crowd-pleaser that brings together all the flavors and textures you never knew you needed. With its creamy, cheesy base and that crispy bacon crunch, it’s undeniably comforting and irresistible. I encourage you to dive in and make it for your next family dinner or gathering—you’ll be amazed at how quickly this dish disappears from the table!
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Cheesy Bacon Mashed Potatoes Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
Creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes baked to perfection with cheddar cheese and crispy bacon, making a delicious side dish perfect for family dinners and holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 3 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold recommended)
Dairy
- 1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ cup butter, cubed
- ¼ cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
- ½ tsp pepper (or to taste)
Additional Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pan and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and cook for about 15 minutes, or until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Mash and Mix: Drain the cooked potatoes well and return them to the pan. Mash the potatoes thoroughly. Stir in softened cream cheese, sour cream, and cubed butter until fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth. Add milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine all seasonings evenly.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mashed potato mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cooked bacon over the top. Cover the dish and refrigerate if not baking immediately, for up to one day.
- Preheat Oven: Remove the mashed potatoes from the refrigerator and preheat the oven to 350ºF (175ºC) to prepare for baking.
- Bake: Bake the uncovered baking dish for 40 to 50 minutes until the potatoes are heated through and the cheese is melted and slightly golden on top. Remove from oven and serve warm.
Notes
- Yukon Gold potatoes offer a creamy texture and buttery flavor ideal for mashed potatoes.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or low-fat milk for whole milk and reduce butter to ¼ cup.
- Make ahead by preparing through step 3 and refrigerating up to one day before baking.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste depending on the saltiness of bacon and cheese.
- Optional: garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for color and added flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
