If you are searching for the ultimate comfort food that satisfies both your craving and your soul, this Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe is a brilliant choice. Bursting with creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and tender shredded potatoes, this casserole is like a warm hug on a plate. Every bite offers a perfect balance of rich flavors and delightful textures that will make it your go-to dish for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe might be packed with flavor, but the ingredients remain wonderfully straightforward. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of taste and texture—from the creamy softness of the cream cheese to the sharp tang of the ranch seasoning and the irresistible crispiness of bacon topping.
- Cream cheese (8 oz, softened): Brings a silky smooth creaminess that binds everything together.
- Sour cream (16 oz): Adds tang and moisture for a luscious, tender base.
- Salt (1 tsp): Enhances all the savory flavors subtly without overpowering.
- Pepper (½ tsp): A gentle kick that balances the richness beautifully.
- Onion powder (½ tsp): Provides a subtle savory depth that blends seamlessly.
- Garlic powder (½ tsp): Infuses a warm, aromatic hint that complements the cheese.
- Ranch dressing mix (2 – 1 oz packages): Packs a punch of herbaceous tanginess that lifts the entire dish.
- Cheddar cheese (3 cups, shredded and divided): Offers sharp, melty cheesiness in every bite, with some reserved for a golden topping.
- Bacon (1 lb., cooked, chopped, and divided): Adds irresistible smoky crunch both inside and sprinkled on top.
- Hash brown potatoes (30 oz bag, shredded): The hearty potato base that makes this recipe so satisfying.
How to Make Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and spray your 9×13 baking dish with non-stick spray. This prep step is crucial to ensure your casserole doesn’t stick and comes out perfectly baked every time.
Step 2: Mix the Creamy Base
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream with salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and ranch dressing mix. I like to use an electric mixer here because it makes everything smooth and silky, but a sturdy fork can also get the job done with a bit more elbow grease.
Step 3: Add Cheddar, Bacon, and Potatoes
Next, stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and half the cooked bacon, followed by the shredded hashbrowns. This mixture will look thick and luscious, a perfect medley of creamy and crispy flavors ready to become magic in the oven.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Transfer the mixture to your prepared dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover it tightly and bake for 40 minutes. Covering the casserole helps the potatoes cook through and keeps everything moist and tender.
Step 5: Cheese and Bacon Topping
After 40 minutes, remove the cover and sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar and the rest of the bacon on top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake an additional 10 minutes. This melts the cheese into a golden, bubbly topping and crisps the bacon perfectly.
How to Serve Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh chives adds a fresh pop of color and a mild onion bite that contrasts beautifully with the rich casserole. A dollop of sour cream on top can also elevate the creaminess and balance the bacon’s saltiness.
Side Dishes
This casserole is hearty, so pair it with lighter sides like a crisp garden salad or steamed green beans to bring brightness and balance to the meal. Roasted vegetables also complement the dish with their natural sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for a cute, personalized touch at parties. Alternatively, transform leftovers into skillet hash topped with a fried egg for a delicious breakfast twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover casserole tightly and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes fantastic cold or reheated, making it perfect for quick lunches or second dinners.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole either before baking or after cooking. Just wrap it well in plastic and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and it will stay good for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly. The topping will crisp back up nicely, almost like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Absolutely! Just make sure to shred and cook them slightly beforehand to remove excess moisture, so your casserole doesn’t turn out soggy.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra flavor and texture.
Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Definitely. All the listed ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check your ranch dressing mix to ensure it’s labeled gluten-free.
How spicy is the Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe?
It’s mild and creamy with no real heat, so it’s perfect for kids and those who prefer gentle flavors. You can add a pinch of cayenne if you want a little kick.
What’s the best way to get crispy bacon for this recipe?
Cook bacon in a skillet over medium-high heat until crisp, then drain on paper towels before chopping. This ensures maximum crunch in every bite.
Final Thoughts
This Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings all the best flavors of a loaded baked potato into one delicious dish. Whether you’re feeding a big family or looking for a comforting side to bring to your next gathering, it’s easy to prepare and always a hit. Grab those simple ingredients and dive in—it’s time to make your dinner extra special!
Print
Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 servings (approximately 10 scoops)
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This loaded potato casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or potlucks. It features shredded hash browns mixed with cream cheese, sour cream, cheesy ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon, all baked to golden perfection with a cheesy topping. The casserole delivers a rich and satisfying taste with a creamy texture and savory bacon bites in every scoop.
Ingredients
Base and Seasoning
- 1 – 8 oz package cream cheese (softened)
- 1 – 16 oz container sour cream
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 2 – 1 oz packages Ranch Dressing mix
Cheese and Bacon
- 3 cups cheddar cheese (shredded and divided)
- 1 lb. bacon (cooked, chopped and divided)
Potatoes
- 1 – 30 oz bag hash brown potatoes (shredded)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray on the bottom and sides to prevent sticking.
- Mix Cream Cheese and Seasonings: In a very large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and sour cream. Incorporate them thoroughly using an electric mixer for a smooth consistency. Add salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and ranch dressing mix, stirring well to blend all flavors.
- Add Cheese, Bacon, and Potatoes: Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and half of the cooked, chopped bacon. Then add the shredded hash brown potatoes and mix everything together evenly.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out in an even layer.
- Bake Covered: Cover the casserole and bake it in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, allowing the potatoes to cook through and flavors to meld.
- Add Topping and Finish Baking: Remove the casserole from the oven, then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and the rest of the bacon evenly over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is well softened before mixing to ensure a smooth texture.
- Using an electric mixer helps fully incorporate the cream cheese and sour cream for a creamier casserole base.
- If preferred, you can substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes after baking to make it easier to scoop and serve.
- For added flavor, you can garnish with chopped green onions or fresh chives before serving.
