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

Scale

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)

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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.