Loaded mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food! This dish combines creamy mashed potatoes with rich toppings like cheese, bacon, and green onions. Perfect as a side dish or a main-course indulgence, these loaded mashed potatoes are loved by many.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is great because it transforms a simple potato dish into something special. With the addition of cheese and bacon, it becomes a crowd-pleaser for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests. Plus, loaded mashed potatoes are simple to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
How to Make Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients:
- 4 lb potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 strips of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 3 green onions (sliced)
Directions:
- Boil the cubed potatoes until soft, about 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Add the sour cream, butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the hot potatoes. Mash them with a potato masher or a hand-held mixer.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese and 2 cups of shredded cheddar.
- Place the mashed potatoes in a baking dish.
- Top with the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onion.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
How to Serve Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Serve loaded mashed potatoes hot from the oven. You can place them in a decorative bowl and garnish with extra bacon and green onions if desired. They pair well with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as part of a festive holiday meal.
How to Store Loaded Mashed Potatoes
To store leftover loaded mashed potatoes, let them cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can last for up to 3 days in the fridge. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Loaded Mashed Potatoes
- Make sure to use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for a creamy texture.
- For extra flavor, add garlic or cream cheese to the mash.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of cheese and bacon according to your preferences.
Variation
You can easily customize this recipe. Add different toppings like jalapeños for a spicy kick, or swap out the green onions for chives. You could also try different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
FAQs
1. Can I make loaded mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator after mixing and before baking.
2. Can I freeze loaded mashed potatoes?
Yes, you can freeze them. Let them cool completely, then store them in a freezer-safe container. They can last for up to 2 months in the freezer.
3. What can I serve with loaded mashed potatoes?
Loaded mashed potatoes go well with grilled meats, roasted veggies, and salad. They’re a great side for barbecues, holidays, or any family meal!
Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Ingredients
Potato Base
- 4 lb potatoes (peeled and cubed) Use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds for better texture.
Creamy Mixture
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¾ cup milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
Toppings
- 2½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided) 2 cups for mixing, ½ cup for topping.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 strips bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 3 green onions (sliced) Can be replaced with chives.
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil the cubed potatoes until soft, about 15 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Add the sour cream, butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the hot potatoes. Mash them with a potato masher or a hand-held mixer.
- Mix in the Parmesan cheese and 2 cups of shredded cheddar.
Baking
- Place the mashed potatoes in a baking dish.
- Top with the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, and sliced green onion.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is melted.
