If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that blends creamy indulgence with zesty bursts of flavor, you have to try this Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onion Recipe. It takes simple everyday ingredients and transforms them into the coziest, most satisfying dish you’ll want to serve at every gathering. Velvety mashed potatoes swirled with rich cheddar, crispy bacon, and vibrant green onions come together perfectly in a casserole that’s both hearty and irresistible. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a delicious way to put a twist on classic mashed potatoes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the foundation for making this casserole a showstopper. Each component plays a critical role whether it’s lending creaminess, savory depth, or fresh brightness, making this dish truly memorable and well-balanced.
- Potatoes (1.75kg/3.5 lb): Choose starchy varieties like Russet or King Edwards for that perfect fluffy mash texture.
- Cooking kosher salt (1 tbsp): Essential for seasoning the potatoes as they cook to bring out their natural flavor.
- Milk (2/3 cup, preferably whole): Adds creaminess and moisture, helping create that luscious mash.
- Extra milk (2/3 cup): Reserved for make-ahead options to keep the casserole moist and fresh.
- Unsalted butter (75g/5 tbsp): Cubed for easy melting, butter enriches the mash with a silky, rich mouthfeel.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Or full-fat yogurt for a gentle tang that brightens up the creamy potatoes.
- Kosher salt (1 tsp): For seasoning the mash to perfect balance.
- Mozzarella (1 1/2 cups, shredded): Melts beautifully to create that gooey cheesy goodness that everyone loves.
- Red Leicester or cheddar (1 cup, shredded): Adds sharp, savory notes and vibrant color to the casserole.
- Bacon (200g/6 oz, chopped): Crispy and smoky, bacon brings the perfect savory crunch and depth.
- Green onion (1/4 cup, finely sliced): Adds a fresh pop of color and a mild onion bite to brighten the dish.
How to Make Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onion Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling your potatoes and cutting them into evenly sized chunks. Place them into a large pot with cold water and add the tablespoon of kosher salt. Bring the water to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender—this usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Perfectly cooked potatoes give you that fluffy base to build the creamy texture this casserole needs.
Step 2: Mash with Love
Drain the potatoes well and return them to the warm pot. Add your cubed butter and mash until mostly smooth, then gently fold in the milk, sour cream, and a teaspoon of kosher salt. The result should be a velvety mash that’s rich and luscious, offering that dreamy creaminess everyone craves from a casserole like this.
Step 3: Mix in the Cheeses and Bacon
Fold in the shredded mozzarella and Red Leicester or cheddar until evenly distributed. The cheese will melt into the warm mash, creating pockets of gooey delight. Next, add the cooked, crispy bacon pieces and stir them in, ensuring every bite bursts with smoky, savory goodness.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer the cheesy, bacon-filled mashed potatoes into a baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the finely sliced green onions evenly across the surface for that fresh visual appeal and flavor lift. Bake in a preheated oven until the top is bubbling and golden, about 20-25 minutes. This finishing step brings everything together with a gorgeous crust and heated comfort.
How to Serve Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onion Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of flair and flavor, garnish your casserole with freshly chopped chives, a drizzle of sour cream, or even a sprinkle of crispy fried onions. These simple additions enhance both the appearance and the layers of taste, making the casserole truly shine on any dinner table.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with a bright green salad to balance the richness, roasted vegetables for extra warmth, or even a simple grilled chicken breast for a complete meal. The creamy mashed potato casserole serves as a decadent side or even a stand-alone star depending on your cravings.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation, or add a breadcrumb and Parmesan topping before baking for an irresistible golden crust. You can even layer it with sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for an elevated twist that impresses every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your casserole tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, leftovers will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy delicious second servings without any extra effort.
Freezing
This Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onion Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place portions or the entire casserole in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the creamy texture and flavors.
Reheating
To reheat, bake uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly warmed, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for convenience, but the oven method preserves the casserole’s luscious texture and cheesy melt best.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this casserole?
Absolutely! While cheddar and mozzarella provide the perfect blend of sharpness and meltiness, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even smoked cheeses for unique flavor profiles.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the bacon or use vegetarian bacon alternatives. Adding extra mushrooms or smoked paprika can help replicate that smoky depth for a satisfying vegetarian version.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Starchy potatoes like Russet, Sebago, or Maris Piper are ideal since they mash up light and fluffy. Avoid waxy varieties, which can yield a gummy texture not suited for creamy casseroles.
Can I prepare this casserole a day in advance?
Definitely. Prepare everything except the green onions, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Before baking, sprinkle fresh green onions on top to keep that lively bite and color intact.
How can I add more flavor to the potatoes?
Mix in roasted garlic, caramelized onions, or a touch of cream cheese along with the butter for extra depth and richness that makes this creamy mashed potato casserole with cheddar, bacon, and green onion recipe even more irresistible.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onion Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day—comforting, rich, and undeniably delicious. Once you try it, you’ll find it hard to go back to plain mashed potatoes. Whether for family dinners, holidays, or special occasions, it promises smiles and full plates. So go ahead, give it a whirl and enjoy every heavenly bite!
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Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole with Cheddar, Bacon, and Green Onion Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 10 – 12 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American/British
Description
This Mashed Potato Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for family gatherings or a hearty side. It combines fluffy mashed potatoes enriched with butter, sour cream, and a blend of cheeses, topped with crispy bacon and green onions for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 1.75kg / 3.5 lb potatoes (Sebago, Russet, Maris Piper, or King Edwards)
- 1 tbsp cooking/kosher salt (for cooking potatoes)
Mashed Potato Mixture
- 2/3 cup milk (preferably full fat/whole milk, lite is acceptable)
- 75g / 5 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into 1cm / 1/2″ cubes)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or full fat yogurt
- 1 tsp cooking/kosher salt (or to taste)
Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups (tightly packed) mozzarella, freshly shredded
- 1 cup (tightly packed) Red Leicester, cheddar or other flavored cheese
Toppings
- 200g / 6 oz streaky bacon, chopped
- 1/4 cup green onion, finely sliced
Instructions
- Cook Potatoes: Peel and cut the potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot with cold water and 1 tbsp kosher salt. Bring to a boil and cook until potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Drain the potatoes well and return to the pot or a large bowl. Add the butter, sour cream, and 2/3 cup milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with 1 tsp salt or to taste. Ensure the mixture is well combined and creamy for the best texture.
- Mix in Cheese: Fold in the shredded mozzarella and Red Leicester or cheddar cheese until evenly distributed throughout the mashed potatoes.
- Cook Bacon and Assemble: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels. Spread the mashed potato mixture into a casserole dish, sprinkle the crispy bacon and green onions evenly over the top. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and the top is lightly browned and bubbly.
Notes
- Note 1: Choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Maris Piper for the fluffiest texture.
- Note 2: For make-ahead options, an additional 2/3 cup milk can be added when reheating.
- Note 3: Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting and flavor integration.
- Note 4: Streaky bacon adds both flavor and crunch; feel free to substitute with smoked ham for variation.
