Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is a deliciously indulgent side dish that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or any family gathering. Creamy mashed potatoes are topped with cheese, sautéed vegetables, and green onions, then baked until golden and bubbling. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that brings all the comforting flavors of a baked potato into one casserole.

Ingredients

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup milk
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (or other vegetables of choice)
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 tablespoon butter, for greasing the casserole dish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
Mash the potatoes with sour cream, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese, sautéed mushrooms (or other vegetables), and half of the green onions.
Transfer the mashed potato mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
Top with the remaining cheese and green onions.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Skip the sautéed mushrooms and opt for other vegetables like spinach or roasted garlic for added flavor.
Add More Veggies: Add other vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach into the mix for extra texture and flavor.
Different Cheese: Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it on the day you plan to serve it.

2. Can I freeze Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from the freezer, adding extra time if needed.

3. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

For best results, fresh mashed potatoes are recommended. Instant potatoes might affect the texture.

4. Can I add different toppings?

Definitely! You could add extra cheese, sour cream, or even crispy fried onions for added crunch.

5. What potatoes work best for this recipe?

Russet potatoes work best for a creamy texture, but Yukon Gold potatoes can be used for a slightly different flavor.

6. Can I use light sour cream or cream cheese?

Yes, but the casserole may be slightly less rich in flavor.

7. How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

8. Can I make this in a smaller dish?

Yes, adjust the baking time depending on the size of your dish.

9. Can I add some ranch dressing to the mashed potatoes?

Yes, adding a couple of tablespoons of ranch dressing will give the casserole a nice flavor boost.

10. How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Conclusion

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes with rich toppings like cheese, sautéed vegetables, and green onions. It’s easy to make, customizable, and a perfect addition to any meal. Whether for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, this casserole will always be a hit!

Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole

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This Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole is a creamy and indulgent side dish that combines mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, sautéed vegetables, and green onions, all baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners, this casserole is a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s easy to make and fully customizable.

Author: Amy
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Yield: 8-10 servings
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
Boil the Potatoes: Boil the peeled and diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return the potatoes to the pot.
Mash the Potatoes: Mash the potatoes with sour cream, cream cheese, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
Stir in Cheese and Veggies: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, sautéed mushrooms (or other vegetables), and half of the chopped green onions.
Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mashed potato mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
Top and Bake: Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and green onions. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
Rest and Serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Vegetarian Version: Skip the sautéed mushrooms and opt for other vegetables like spinach or roasted garlic for added flavor.

More Veggies: Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach for more texture and flavor.

Cheese Variations: Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

Toppings: Add extra cheese, sour cream, or crispy fried onions for a delicious topping.

Potato Alternatives: Yukon Gold potatoes work well too, offering a slightly different flavor and texture.