Description
A rich and indulgent side dish made from leftover mashed potatoes, loaded with sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and sour cream, then baked until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 cups leftover mashed potatoes (plain)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons dried or fresh chopped chives
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup crispy bacon bits
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2–3 stalks green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 1.5-quart casserole dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Place leftover mashed potatoes in a large mixing bowl. If cold, microwave for 1-2 minutes to soften.
- Add melted butter, heavy cream, garlic powder, chives, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Stir until smooth and creamy.
- Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly, pressing down slightly.
- Spread shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by bacon bits and dollops of sour cream.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and edges are golden brown.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with sliced green onions and serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for best melting results; avoid pre-shredded cheese. If using cold leftover potatoes, warm them slightly before mixing. This dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerated before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to baking time if baking from cold.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the casserole
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 600
- Fat: 22
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 35
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 12
Keywords: mashed potato casserole, leftover mashed potatoes, loaded baked potato, cheesy casserole, bacon and cheese, holiday side dish, comfort food, make-ahead side dish