The Best Mashed Potato Potato Casserole
The BEST Mashed Potato Potato Casserole is a easy American recipe that serves 8. 640 calories per serving. Recipe by The Anthony Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 49 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 1 hr 39 min
Cost: $11.85 total, $1.48 per serving
Ingredients
- 3 pounds Potatoes (peeled and cut into 1‑inch chunks)
- 8 slices Thick‑Cut Bacon (diced; about 0.5 lb)
- 1 stick Unsalted Butter (softened, cut into cubes)
- 0.5 cup Whole Milk (for richness)
- 8 oz Cream Cheese (softened, cut into cubes)
- 8 oz Havarti Cheese (shredded or cubed)
- 1.5 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded; half used in the base, the rest for topping)
- 1 bunch Green Onions (sliced; about 2/3 used in the base, remainder for topping)
- 1 tsp Kosher Salt (to taste)
- 0.5 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)
Instructions
Boil the Potatoes
Place the peeled, cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork‑tender, about 20 minutes.
Time: PT20M
Cook the Bacon
While the potatoes boil, dice the thick‑cut bacon and add to a skillet over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crisp and the fat has rendered, about 10 minutes.
Time: PT10M
Drain the Potatoes
When tender, drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the hot pot to let excess moisture evaporate for 2 minutes.
Time: PT2M
Mash with Butter and Milk
Add the stick of butter and ½ cup milk to the hot potatoes. Using a handheld mixer, mash until smooth and creamy.
Time: PT5M
Add Cream Cheese and Seasonings
Stir in the softened cream cheese, 1 tsp kosher salt, and ½ tsp black pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
Time: PT3M
Fold in Havarti and Cheddar
Add the shredded Havarti and ½ cup shredded cheddar. Mix with the mixer until the cheeses melt into the potato base.
Time: PT4M
Add Green Onions and Half the Bacon
Stir in 2/3 of the sliced green onions and half of the crispy bacon pieces.
Time: PT2M
Transfer to Baking Dish
Spoon the potato mixture into a 9×13‑inch baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula.
Time: PT3M
First Bake (Covered)
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a pre‑heated oven at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Time: PT20M
Temperature: 350°F
Add Topping
Remove the foil. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar, the rest of the crispy bacon, and the remaining sliced green onions over the top.
Time: PT5M
Second Bake (Uncovered)
Return the casserole to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10 minutes at 350°F until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
Time: PT10M
Temperature: 350°F
Rest and Serve
Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving so the flavors settle and the slice holds its shape.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 640
- Protein
- 30 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 35 g
- Fiber
- 4 g
Dietary info: Contains dairy, Contains pork, Gluten‑free, High‑protein, Comfort food
Allergens: Milk, Cheese, Butter, Pork
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes, Russet potatoes
- Instead of Thick‑Cut Bacon: Pancetta, Turkey bacon
- Instead of Unsalted Butter: Margarine
- Instead of Whole Milk: Half‑and‑half, Heavy cream (use less)
- Instead of Cream Cheese: Neufchatel cheese, Ricotta
- Instead of Havarti Cheese: Mozzarella, Gouda
- Instead of Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack, Colby
- Instead of Green Onions: Chives
- Instead of Kosher Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Black Pepper: White pepper
Equipment Needed
- Large Pot
- Colander
- Skillet
- Mixing Bowl
- Handheld Mixer
- 9×13‑Inch Baking Dish
- Aluminum Foil (optional)
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
- Spatula
- Oven Mitts
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Boil potatoes until fork‑tender.
- Render bacon until crisp.
- Cover the casserole for the first bake to retain moisture.
- Finish with an uncovered bake to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese crust.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika to the cheese mixture.
- Use a mix of sharp and mild cheddar for depth of flavor.
- Reserve a small amount of bacon fat to drizzle over the top before the final bake for added richness.
Troubleshooting
Casserole is dry after baking.
Add an extra ¼ cup milk to the potato mixture before baking, and be sure to cover with foil for the first 20 minutes.
Cheese does not melt or browns unevenly.
Make sure the oven is fully pre‑heated to 350°F and spread the cheese topping in an even layer. If needed, broil for 1‑2 minutes at the end.
Potatoes are gummy.
Do not over‑mix the potatoes; mash just until smooth. Use a hand mixer on low speed and stop as soon as the mixture is creamy.
Storage
Refrigerator: Cover tightly and store for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap the baked casserole in foil and freezer‑safe wrap; freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Room temperature: Do not store at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble the casserole up to the foil‑cover step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake as directed the next day.
- Cook the potatoes and bacon a day ahead; store separately in airtight containers.
- The casserole freezes well; bake from frozen by adding 10‑15 extra minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of loaded potato casserole in American cuisine?
Loaded potato casserole evolved from classic American comfort foods like potato gratin and casserole dishes served at family gatherings. Over the decades it became a staple at holidays and potlucks because it combines familiar ingredients—potatoes, cheese, and bacon—into a crowd‑pleasing, make‑ahead side.
What are traditional regional variations of loaded potato casserole in the United States?
In the Midwest, the dish often includes sour cream and chives, while Southern versions may add jalapeños or use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack. Some New England cooks incorporate breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.
How is loaded potato casserole traditionally served in American holiday meals?
It is typically served hot from the oven as a side dish alongside roasted turkey or ham during Thanksgiving and Christmas. The casserole is often placed on a warming tray to keep it creamy throughout the meal.
What occasions or celebrations is loaded potato casserole traditionally associated with in American culture?
The casserole is a popular choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, Fourth of July barbecues, Super Bowl parties, and any casual gathering where a hearty, shareable side is desired.
How does loaded potato casserole fit into the broader American comfort food tradition?
It embodies the comfort‑food ethos of rich, dairy‑laden dishes that are easy to prepare in large batches. The combination of potatoes, cheese, and bacon reflects classic American flavors that evoke nostalgia and satisfaction.
What are the authentic traditional ingredients for loaded potato casserole versus acceptable substitutes?
Traditional ingredients include russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon, cream cheese, and butter. Acceptable substitutes are Havarti or mozzarella for extra melt, turkey bacon for a leaner option, and half‑and‑half instead of whole milk.
What other American side dishes pair well with loaded potato casserole?
It pairs beautifully with roasted green beans, glazed carrots, cranberry sauce, a fresh mixed green salad, or a simple coleslaw to balance the richness.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making loaded potato casserole?
Common errors include over‑mixing the potatoes, which makes them gummy; under‑cooking the bacon, leading to soggy texture; and skipping the covered bake, which can dry out the casserole.
Why does this loaded potato casserole recipe use both cream cheese and Havarti instead of just one cheese?
Cream cheese adds moisture and a tangy richness that keeps the casserole creamy for days, while Havarti melts smoothly and contributes a buttery, buttery flavor. Together they create a layered cheese experience that single‑cheese versions lack.
How do I know when the loaded potato casserole is done cooking and the cheese is properly melted?
The casserole is done when the edges are bubbling, the cheese topping is golden‑brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out hot. The interior should be hot and creamy, not liquid.
What does the YouTube channel The Anthony Kitchen specialize in?
The Anthony Kitchen focuses on approachable, home‑cooked recipes that are perfect for everyday meals and entertaining. The channel emphasizes clear step‑by‑step tutorials, comfort‑food classics, and dishes that can be made ahead for gatherings.
How does the YouTube channel The Anthony Kitchen's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
The Anthony Kitchen blends practical kitchen tips with a relaxed presentation style, often highlighting make‑ahead strategies and ingredient swaps. Unlike some high‑production channels, Anthony keeps the focus on simplicity, affordability, and dishes that suit both novice and experienced home cooks.
Last updated: August 31, 2026
