Here’s a delicious recipe for Baked Potato Casserole that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor:
Ingredients:
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For the casserole:
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
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For the topping:
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Potatoes:
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Mash the Potatoes:
- Mash the cooked potatoes with a potato masher or use a hand mixer if you prefer a smoother texture.
- Add the sour cream, milk (or cream), melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of chopped green onions, mixing until smooth and well-combined.
4. Assemble the Casserole:
- Transfer the mashed potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread it out evenly.
5. Add the Topping:
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
- If you’re using bacon, sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top as well.
6. Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with additional chopped green onions for a fresh burst of flavor.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips:
- For a creamier casserole, you can add extra sour cream or a little more milk/cream.
- You can mix in other toppings, like sautéed onions, mushrooms, or even a bit of ranch seasoning for extra flavor.
- If you want to make this ahead of time, you can prepare it the day before, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
Enjoy this comforting, cheesy baked potato casserole! It’s perfect as a side dish for any meal! 🥔🧀