Close-up of Loaded Cheesy Potato Casserole topped with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, green onions, and a creamy potato filling being served from a white baking dish.

Loaded Cheesy Potato Casserole

By
Flavour Quest Recipes

Loaded Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe (Easy Comfort Food)

Creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and a buttery golden topping make this Loaded Cheesy Potato Casserole the ultimate comfort food side dish.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 2½ pounds russet potatoes peeled and diced
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • ½ cup milk
  • 4 tablespoons butter melted
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
  • 8 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 3 green onions sliced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
Topping
  • ½ cup crushed buttery crackers such as Ritz
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

Method
 

👩‍🍳 Instructions
  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Boil the potatoes for 10–12 minutes until just fork-tender. Drain well.
  3. In a large bowl, combine sour cream, milk, melted butter, 1½ cups cheddar cheese, bacon, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Fold in the potatoes until evenly coated.
  5. Spread into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
  7. Mix crushed crackers with melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
  8. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  9. Garnish with extra bacon and green onions before serving.

Enjoying this recipe? You may also love my Comfort Dinner Guide — a simple collection of easy, cozy meal ideas for busy weeknights. It’s a helpful extra resource for those nights when you want something comforting without overthinking dinner.

⭐ Variations

Add diced ham instead of bacon.

Use Monterey Jack or Colby cheese.

Stir in ranch seasoning for extra flavor.

Add jalapeños for a spicy version. Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Grilled chicken
  • Meatloaf
  • BBQ ribs
  • Roast beef
  • Holiday ham
  • A crisp garden salad

🥡 Storage

Refrigerator: Store covered for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes or microwave individual portions until heated through.

👩‍🍳 Pro Tips

  • Don’t overcook the potatoes before baking.
  • Shred your own cheese for the best melt.
  • Reserve some bacon for garnish.
  • Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.

❓ FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake.

Can I freeze it?

Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking.

What potatoes work best?

Russet potatoes are ideal because they become fluffy and creamy.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the bacon.

Can this be served as a main dish?

Definitely! Add extra bacon, ham, or shredded chicken to make it heartier.

Scroll to Top