Ultimate Loaded Make-Ahead Mashed Potato Casserole
Prepare this creamy, indulgent mashed potato casserole in advance and enjoy a stress-free meal. Rich in flavor with just the right balance of buttery smoothness and savory toppings, this dish combines fluffy mashed potatoes with crispy bacon, melted cheddar, and a hint of herbs. An ideal side for holidays or a hearty family dinner, this casserole ensures everyone at the table leaves satisfied.
8
Servings
525
Calories
12
Ingredients
Ingredients
potatoes
3 lbs (peeled and cubed)
butter
1/2 cup (unsalted)
milk
1 cup (whole)
Italian cheese and herbs cooking creme
10 ounces (or 8 oz cream cheese, softened with additional herbs)
sour cream
1 cup (full-fat)
garlic powder
1 tablespoon
onion powder
1 tablespoon
salt
to taste
black pepper
to taste
bacon
12-16 ounces (cooked to a crisp and broken into small pieces)
sharp cheddar cheese
2 cups (shredded)
green onions
1 bunch (diced)
Instructions
1
Fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil. Add the peeled and cubed potatoes, cooking until tender and easily pierced with a fork, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
2
Return the cooked potatoes to the pot or a large mixing bowl. Add the butter, milk, cooking creme (or cream cheese if using), sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3
Mash the potatoes using a hand mixer or potato masher until they are smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste, if necessary.
4
Transfer the creamy potato mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to fill the dish.
5
Evenly sprinkle the top with shredded sharp cheddar cheese, crisp bacon pieces, and diced green onions.
6
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 36 hours to allow the flavors to develop.
7
When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator and allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
8
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Uncover the casserole and bake for 40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
9
Serve warm as a flavorful side dish that will delight everyone with its creamy and savory goodness.
Nutrition Information
30g
Fat
42.5g
Carbs
20g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ultimate Loaded Make-Ahead Mashed Potato Casserole?
It is a creamy, indulgent side dish featuring fluffy mashed potatoes mixed with butter, sour cream, and herbs, then topped with crispy bacon, melted cheddar cheese, and green onions.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve approximately 8 people.
Can I prepare this mashed potato casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole and refrigerate it for up to 36 hours before baking.
How long do the potatoes need to boil?
The peeled and cubed potatoes should be boiled for about 15-20 minutes until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
What can I use if I don't have Italian cheese and herbs cooking creme?
You can substitute with 8 ounces of softened cream cheese mixed with additional dried or fresh herbs.
What is the recommended oven temperature for baking the casserole?
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit or 175 degrees Celsius.
How long does the casserole take to bake?
The casserole should bake for 40 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the center is heated through.
Should the casserole sit out before baking if it has been refrigerated?
Yes, allow the casserole to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What kind of cheese is best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is recommended for its bold flavor and excellent melting properties.
How many potatoes are required for this recipe?
You will need 3 pounds of potatoes, peeled and cubed.
What are the primary toppings used?
The toppings include shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 12-16 ounces of crispy bacon pieces, and a bunch of diced green onions.
What makes the potatoes extra creamy in this recipe?
The combination of butter, whole milk, cooking creme, and full-fat sour cream creates a very rich and smooth texture.
What seasonings are added to the mashed potatoes?
The recipe uses garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to season the potato mixture.
Is it better to use a hand mixer or a potato masher?
You can use either; a hand mixer will provide a smoother, fluffier consistency while a masher may leave some texture.
How much bacon is needed for the topping?
The recipe calls for 12 to 16 ounces of bacon, cooked until crisp and broken into small pieces.
Can I use low-fat sour cream?
The recipe suggests full-fat sour cream for the best flavor and creaminess, but low-fat can be used as a substitute.
What type of milk is used?
The recipe specifies 1 cup of whole milk.
Does this dish contain gluten?
Based on the ingredients list, it is naturally gluten-free, though you should verify the label of the cooking creme or cream cheese used.
How many calories are in one serving?
Each serving contains approximately 525 calories.
What are the macronutrients per serving?
Each serving has 30g of fat, 42.5g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein.
Should the baking dish be greased?
Yes, you should transfer the potato mixture into a greased baking dish to prevent sticking.
Can I use salted butter?
The recipe calls for unsalted butter so you can better control the salt level, but if you use salted butter, reduce the extra salt added later.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Is this a good dish for the holidays?
Yes, it is an ideal side for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas because it can be made ahead of time to save oven space and stress.
Do I need to cover the casserole while it is in the refrigerator?
Yes, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil while it is refrigerating.
Should the casserole be covered while baking?
The instructions state to uncover the casserole before baking so the cheese can melt and bubble.
How much cheddar cheese is used?
The recipe requires 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
How many grams of protein are in this dish?
This casserole is surprisingly high in protein, offering 20g per serving.
What is the total fat content per serving?
There are 30 grams of fat per serving.
Can I add more green onions?
Yes, the recipe uses 1 bunch of diced green onions, but you can adjust the amount to your personal preference.