Loaded Baked Potato Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food
There’s something magical about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings people together. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a festive potluck, or a weekend brunch, casseroles have a way of turning simple ingredients into unforgettable meals. And when it comes to comfort food, few dishes rival the indulgent delight of a Loaded Baked Potato Casserole.
This recipe is a celebration of everything we love about baked potatoes—creamy textures, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and that irresistible hint of garlic—all baked into one bubbling, golden dish. It’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to be the star of any table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or weeknight dinners.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it ahead and bake when ready.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or swap ingredients to suit dietary needs.
- Comfort in Every Bite: Creamy, cheesy, savory—this casserole checks all the boxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this delicious dish:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
Russets are ideal for baking—they’re starchy and absorb flavors beautifully. - 1 cup sour cream
Adds tang and creaminess to the base. - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Sharp cheddar gives a bold flavor and melty texture. - 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
For extra richness and a velvety finish. - 1/2 cup milk
Helps blend the ingredients smoothly. - 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Adds freshness and a mild onion kick. - 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
Smoky, salty, and crispy—bacon is the soul of this casserole. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Enhances the savory depth. - Salt and pepper, to taste
Season to your liking. - Extra cheese and green onions, for topping
Because more cheese is always a good idea.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing your russet potatoes into bite-sized chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and let them cool slightly.
Tip: Don’t overcook the potatoes—they should be tender but not falling apart.
- Make the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, softened cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Tip: Room-temperature cream cheese blends more easily. If needed, microwave it for 10–15 seconds.
- Mix It All Together
Add the cooked potatoes to the bowl along with shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, and crumbled bacon. Gently fold everything together until well combined.
Tip: Use a spatula to avoid breaking the potatoes too much—you want some texture.
- Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and spread the mixture evenly. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese and green onions on top for a golden, bubbly finish. - Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden around the edges. - Cool and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to slice.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is a meal in itself, but here are some great pairings:
- Grilled chicken or steak for added protein.
- Steamed broccoli or green beans for a fresh contrast.
- Crisp garden salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Dinner rolls or garlic bread to soak up every last bite.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
- Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
Freezing Tip: You can freeze the assembled (unbaked) casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Variations and Add-Ons
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty twists:
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Extra Protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or ground beef.
- Herb Boost: Add chopped parsley, thyme, or chives for extra flavor.
final thoughts
This Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is more than just a recipe—it’s a warm hug in a dish. It’s the kind of meal that makes people linger around the table, ask for seconds, and request the recipe. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this casserole delivers comfort, flavor, and joy in every bite.