Satisfy your cravings with this creamy, cheesy Loaded Baked Potato Casserole that’s perfect for gatherings! Rich and savory, this casserole combines tender potatoes, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, making it a crowd-pleasing delight for any occasion. Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or contributing to a potluck spread, this dish brings all the flavors of a loaded baked potato into one easy-to-serve baking dish. It’s beginner-friendly, so even if you’re new to the kitchen, you’ll master it in no time. With just 20 minutes of hands-on prep, 25 minutes in the oven, and a quick 5-minute rest, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal on the table—and at around 450 calories per serving, it’s the kind of comfort food you can feel good about sharing.
I remember the first time I made this casserole for a family movie night. My kitchen was filled with laughter and the irresistible scent of melting cheddar and sizzling bacon. As I pulled that bubbling, golden-topped pan from the oven, everyone crowded around, forks in hand, eager to dive in. The combination of velvety mashed potatoes, tangy sour cream, and savory bacon instantly became a hit—and I knew I’d found my new go-to recipe for celebrations. If you’re looking for a simple yet impressive dish that feels both indulgent and homey, you’re in the right place. Let’s dig in!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN LOADED BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE
Before you get started, let’s take a look at the heart of this recipe—the ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture, resulting in that unforgettable loaded baked potato taste in a convenient casserole format.
- Russet Potatoes
These starchy spuds are peeled, cubed, and boiled until tender, providing a fluffy base that soaks up all the rich flavors of butter and sour cream.
- Butter
Melted into the hot potatoes, butter adds a silky richness and helps create that classic, velvety texture we love in mashed potato dishes.
- Sour Cream
This tangy element lightens the overall flavor, balancing the richness of the cheese and butter, and ensuring every bite is creamy without feeling too heavy.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese
Sharp and melty, cheddar brings that signature cheesy pull. It’s folded into the potato mixture and then layered on top for a bubbly, golden crust.
- Cooked Bacon
Crispy bacon bits stirred into the potatoes deliver a smoky, savory crunch that contrasts perfectly with the softness of the mash.
- Green Onions
Chopped green onions add a fresh, oniony bite and vibrant color, making the casserole look as good as it tastes.
- Salt and Pepper
Simple seasoning that enhances all the other flavors—season to taste for a perfectly balanced dish.
- Additional Shredded Cheddar Cheese for Topping
A generous layer of cheese on top becomes delightfully browned and gooey when baked, creating irresistible cheese pulls.
- Additional Chopped Bacon for Topping
More bacon on the surface delivers extra crunch and visual appeal, letting bacon lovers savor every bit.
- Additional Chopped Green Onions for Garnish
A sprinkle of fresh green onions at the end brightens up the rich, creamy casserole with a pop of color and a hint of crispness.
HOW TO MAKE LOADED BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s walk through the step-by-step process to create this indulgent casserole. Follow each instruction carefully, and you’ll end up with a warm, bubbly dish that’s ready to serve.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring the oven is fully preheated will help the cheese melt evenly and the casserole bake through without overcooking the edges.
2. In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil. Gently add the cubed potatoes and cook until they’re tender, about 15–20 minutes. Test with a fork—it should slide in easily. Once done, drain thoroughly to remove excess water.
3. Return the drained potatoes to the hot pot and mash them until smooth, breaking up any lumps. A hand masher or electric mixer both work well here.
4. Stir in the melted butter, sour cream, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, ½ cup cooked bacon, and ¼ cup chopped green onions. Mix well so every bite is infused with that creamy, cheesy goodness and bits of bacon and onion are evenly distributed.
5. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a quick stir to ensure the seasoning is well incorporated.
6. Transfer the potato mixture to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
7. Sprinkle the additional 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the potatoes, creating a smooth, cheesy layer that will melt into a bubbly crust.
8. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with just a hint of golden brown on the edges.
9. Carefully remove the casserole from the oven and immediately top with the additional ¼ cup chopped bacon, letting the residual heat bring back that crispness.
10. Garnish with the additional chopped green onions for a pop of color and a fresh, mild onion flavor.
11. Serve the casserole warm and watch your guests dive into this creamy, savory comfort food classic!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR LOADED BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE
When it comes to presenting this cheesy, bacon-packed casserole, you can keep things simple or dress it up to suit any occasion. Here are some ideas to elevate each serving and complement the rich flavors.
- Pair with a Crisp Green Salad
Balance the richness by serving alongside a salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette. The bright, acidic dressing cuts through the creaminess and keeps the meal feeling fresh.
- Top with Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle chopped parsley, cilantro, or chives just before serving. The herbaceous notes add a fragrant finish and make each plate look restaurant-worthy.
- Serve with Grilled Chicken or Steak
For a heartier dinner, offer slices of grilled protein. The juicy meat pairs beautifully with the potato base, turning your casserole into a complete feast.
- Add a Dollop of Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
Encourage guests to personalize their portion by adding an extra dollop of sour cream or tangy Greek yogurt right at the table. It’s an easy way to boost creaminess and presentation.
HOW TO STORE LOADED BAKED POTATO CASSEROLE
This casserole is not just a one-time treat—it keeps beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead dish or a satisfying next-day meal. Proper storage will preserve its texture and flavor so you can enjoy leftovers without compromise.
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container
Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature, then transfer any leftovers to a sealed container. Stored in the fridge, it will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
- Cover the Baking Dish
If you plan to reheat in the same dish, wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. This method prevents the casserole from drying out and locks in moisture.
- Freezing for Longer Storage
Place cooled, unbaked casserole in a freezer-safe dish, cover securely, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge before following the baking instructions.
- Reheat with Care
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil for 15–20 minutes, then uncover for a few minutes to crisp the cheese topping.
CONCLUSION
This Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is the perfect blend of creamy mashed potatoes, tangy sour cream, smoky bacon, and melty cheddar cheese—all topped with even more cheese, bacon, and green onions. It’s an ideal beginner-friendly recipe that transforms a classic loaded baked potato into a shareable comfort dish fit for lunch or dinner. The preparation time is just 20 minutes, with 25 minutes in the oven and a short 5-minute rest before serving. At approximately 450 calories per serving, it’s rich and satisfying without tipping the scales. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a potluck, or simply craving a cozy meal, this casserole delivers irresistible flavor with minimal fuss. Feel free to swap russets for Yukon Gold potatoes for a naturally buttery taste, or experiment with toppings like jalapeños, chives, or Parmesan cheese for extra flair.
You can easily print this article and save it for later—stashing it in your recipe binder or on your fridge for quick reference when you need a tried-and-true crowd-pleaser. Don’t forget to check the FAQ below for tips on ingredient substitutions, reheating methods, and allergy-friendly adaptations. If you give this recipe a try, I’d love to hear about your experience! Drop a comment, share your creative twists, or let me know if you have any questions. Your feedback and cooking stories make this recipe even more special, so please reach out and say hello—happy cooking!
Loaded Baked Potato Casserole
Description
Rich and savory, this casserole combines tender potatoes, melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, making it a crowd-pleasing delight for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the cubed potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
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Return the potatoes to the pot and mash them until smooth.
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Stir in the melted butter, sour cream, 1 cup cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup cooked bacon, and 1/4 cup green onions. Mix well until all ingredients are combined.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Transfer the potato mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
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Sprinkle the additional 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the potato layer.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Remove from oven and top with the additional 1/4 cup chopped bacon.
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Garnish with the additional chopped green onions for a pop of color.
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Serve warm and enjoy this savory and creamy casserole!
Note
- This dish can be made a day in advance, stored in the refrigerator, and baked the next day.
- Experiment by adding toppings like jalapenos, chives, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- This recipe is ideal for gatherings as it combines classic loaded baked potato flavors in a convenient casserole format.
- Swap the russet potatoes with Yukon Gold for a naturally buttery taste.
- To reduce prep time, use pre-cooked bacon and pre-shredded cheese, but ensure its quality for best results.
