This Is Your New Favorite Potato Recipe

This Is Your New Favorite Potato Recipe is a easy American recipe that serves 6. 350 calories per serving. Recipe by Mr. Make It Happen on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 45 min

Cost: $13.77 total, $2.30 per serving

Ingredients

  • 4 large Russet Potatoes (peeled and cut into bite‑size chunks)
  • 8 slices Thick‑Cut Bacon (cooked until crispy, then diced)
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, Yellow (shredded)
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese, White (Vermont) (shredded)
  • 4 oz Boursin Garlic & Herb Cheese (soft, room temperature)
  • 4 oz Cream Cheese (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup Half‑and‑Half (can substitute heavy cream or whole milk)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (cut into small pieces)
  • 1/2 cup Onion, White and Green Parts (diced (white) plus sliced green tops for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Paste (or 1 clove fresh garlic minced)
  • 1 tablespoon Kosher Salt (for seasoning boiling water)
  • to taste Black Pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

  1. Prep Potatoes

    Peel the russet potatoes, cut them into bite‑size chunks of uniform size, and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Boil Potatoes

    Place the rinsed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add 1 tablespoon kosher salt, bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until fork‑tender (about 10‑12 minutes).

    Time: PT12M

    Temperature: 212°F

  3. Cook Bacon

    Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, arrange thick‑cut bacon slices in a single layer, and bake in a pre‑heated 425°F oven until crispy, about 12‑15 minutes. Remove, let cool, then dice the bacon; reserve half for mixing and half for topping.

    Time: PT15M

    Temperature: 425°F

  4. Shred Cheeses

    Using a box grater, shred the yellow sharp cheddar and white Vermont cheddar into separate bowls.

    Time: PT3M

  5. Sauté Onions

    In a skillet over medium heat, add 1‑2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat, then add the diced white onion and sliced green onion tops. Sweat until softened, about 4 minutes, then stir in 1 teaspoon garlic paste and season with salt and pepper.

    Time: PT4M

    Temperature: medium heat

  6. Mash Potatoes

    Drain the boiled potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash until smooth using a potato masher (or blend briefly).

    Time: PT2M

  7. Combine Base Mixture

    To the mashed potatoes add the sautéed onions, 4 oz room‑temperature cream cheese, 4 oz Boursin cheese, 2 tablespoons butter, and ½ cup half‑and‑half. Stir until fully incorporated and creamy. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheeses and the diced bacon reserved for mixing. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or garlic/onion powder as desired.

    Time: PT5M

  8. Assemble Casserole

    Preheat the oven to 375°F. Transfer the potato mixture to a greased 9‑by‑11‑inch casserole dish, smoothing the top. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar and the reserved crispy bacon pieces evenly over the surface.

    Time: PT3M

    Temperature: 375°F

  9. Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: 375°F

  10. Rest and Serve

    Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes. Garnish with additional sliced green onion or chives before serving.

    Time: PT10M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
350
Protein
12 g
Carbohydrates
30 g
Fat
20 g
Fiber
3 g

Dietary info: Gluten-Free, High-Protein

Allergens: Dairy, Pork

Last updated: April 20, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

This Is Your New Favorite Potato Recipe

Recipe by Mr. Make It Happen

A crowd‑pleasing, cheesy potato casserole loaded with bacon, onions, cream cheese, Boursin garlic‑herb cheese, and sharp cheddar. Perfect as a side for Easter dinner or any holiday gathering, this dish comes together in under 45 minutes.

EasyAmericanServes 6

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
25m
Prep
54m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
1h 29m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$13.77
Total cost
$2.30
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Peeling and cutting potatoes uniformly
  • Boiling potatoes until fork‑tender
  • Cooking bacon until crispy
  • Sautéing onions in bacon fat for flavor
  • Ensuring cream cheese and Boursin are at room temperature for smooth mixing
  • Baking until the top is golden brown

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot boiling water and steam with care to avoid burns.
  • Use oven mitts when removing hot baking sheet and casserole dish.
  • Bacon fat is hot; avoid splatter injuries when sautéing onions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Loaded Baked Potato Casserole in American Easter celebrations?

A

While not a traditional Easter dish, loaded baked potato casseroles have become a popular American side for holiday meals because they combine comfort‑food flavors with a festive, hearty presentation, making them a crowd‑pleasing addition to Easter brunches and dinners.

cultural
Q

What regional variations of loaded baked potato casserole exist within United States cuisine?

A

In the South, cooks often add jalapeños or use pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick. In the Midwest, a topping of crushed cornflakes adds extra crunch. Some New England versions incorporate cream cheese and sour cream for extra richness.

cultural
Q

How is Loaded Baked Potato Casserole traditionally served in American holiday meals?

A

It is typically served hot from the oven as a side alongside roasted meats such as ham, turkey, or prime rib. A garnish of fresh chives or green onions adds color, and a side of sour cream or ranch can be offered for extra creaminess.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is Loaded Baked Potato Casserole traditionally associated with in American culture?

A

Beyond Easter, this casserole is popular for Thanksgiving, Fourth of July barbecues, and family game‑night gatherings because it can be prepared ahead and feeds a crowd with minimal fuss.

cultural
Q

What makes Loaded Baked Potato Casserole special or unique in American comfort‑food cuisine?

A

The combination of crispy bacon, multiple cheddar varieties, creamy Boursin cheese, and a smooth mashed‑potato base creates layers of texture and flavor that set it apart from a standard potato bake, delivering both richness and a satisfying crunch.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Loaded Baked Potato Casserole?

A

Overcooking the potatoes so they become waterlogged, under‑seasoning the mash, and skipping the final cheese topping can lead to a dry or bland casserole. Also, be sure the bacon is crisp; soggy bacon adds unwanted moisture.

technical
Q

Why does this Loaded Baked Potato Casserole recipe use Boursin garlic‑herb cheese instead of plain cream cheese?

A

Boursin adds a burst of herb flavor and a smoother melt, complementing the cheddar and bacon without making the dish overly heavy, whereas plain cream cheese would provide richness but lack the aromatic depth.

technical
Q

Can I make Loaded Baked Potato Casserole ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Prepare the mashed potato mixture and assemble the casserole (without the final cheese topping) up to 24 hours ahead. Refrigerate uncovered in an airtight container, then add the topping and bake when ready. Leftovers keep 3 days in the fridge.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is done cooking?

A

The top should be golden‑brown and slightly crisp, the cheese fully melted and bubbling, and the interior should be hot, creamy, and hold its shape when sliced. A gentle steam release when cutting indicates it’s properly cooked.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Mr. Make It Happen specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Mr. Make It Happen focuses on quick, approachable home‑cooking tutorials that emphasize practical tips, equipment hacks, and crowd‑pleasing comfort dishes for everyday meals and special occasions.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Mr. Make It Happen's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?

A

Mr. Make It Happen blends humor with step‑by‑step visual cues, often highlighting time‑saving methods like oven‑baked bacon and using everyday kitchen tools, whereas many channels prioritize elaborate plating or gourmet techniques.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

CHICKEN NOODLE BAKE, 6 Ingredients Using Your Favorite Potato Chip Dip
6

CHICKEN NOODLE BAKE, 6 Ingredients Using Your Favorite Potato Chip Dip

A creamy, comforting chicken noodle casserole made with just six pantry-friendly ingredients: wide egg noodles, rotisserie chicken, green onion dip, cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar, and crispy French fried onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.

1 hr 10 minServes 6$29
American
One of my favorite healthy snacks to have lying around: Japanese Sweet Potato
5

One of my favorite healthy snacks to have lying around: Japanese Sweet Potato

Crisp‑skin, custardy‑sweet Japanese sweet potatoes baked at 375°F until soft inside. Perfect as a snack straight from the oven or topped with a drizzle of spicy chili crisp. Store them in the fridge for up to a week for quick grab‑and‑go treats.

1 hr 25 minServes 2$4
Japanese
Chef John's Favorite Potato Side
3

Chef John's Favorite Potato Side

A rich, cheesy potato side dish that feels like a steakhouse classic. Baked potatoes are cooled, grated, and tossed with onion, sharp white cheddar, sour cream, and a hint of cayenne for a comforting, crowd‑pleasing side.

2 hrs 40 minServes 4$9
American
This is My New Favorite Way To Make Sweet Potatoes
2

This is My New Favorite Way To Make Sweet Potatoes

A festive holiday side dish featuring fluffy sweet potato filling, a buttery pecan crumble, and caramelized marshmallows. Perfect for smaller families or as a show‑stopping side at your holiday table.

1 hr 55 minServes 4$14
American
An Italian favorite: Schiacciata di patate – Italian flat potato bread
3

An Italian favorite: Schiacciata di patate – Italian flat potato bread

A crispy, cheesy potato flatbread made from grated potatoes, thinly sliced potato topping, and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella. Baked at high heat until golden brown, this snack‑or‑side is a healthier alternative to fries and perfect for kids and adults alike.

2 hrsServes 4$14
Italian
This potato bread recipe has become a family favorite!
4

This potato bread recipe has become a family favorite!

A hearty Albanian‑style potato‑enriched bread served with a quick Worcestershire‑garlic sauce. The dough is soft, slightly yeasted, and the sauce adds a tangy, savory kick. Perfect for a comforting main or a robust side dish.

1 hr 26 minServes 8$6
Albanian