The Ultimate Cheesy Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

Crafting a mouthwatering baked potato casserole brings comfort right to your dinner table.

Layers of creamy potatoes and melted cheese create a hearty meal everyone adores.

Russet potatoes work perfectly for this classic dish.

Crispy bacon bits add a satisfying crunch that makes each bite irresistible.

Sharp cheddar cheese melts into golden pools of deliciousness.

Home cooks appreciate how simple ingredients transform into something spectacular.

Dive into this crowd-pleasing recipe that promises warmth and satisfaction in every forkful.

Flavor Variations to Try with Baked Potato Casserole

• Spicy Southwest Potato Casserole: Replace bacon bits with chorizo, add diced jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, and sprinkle with chili powder for a zesty southwestern kick.
• Mediterranean Herb Potato Bake: Mix in crumbled feta cheese, chopped fresh rosemary, and sun-dried tomatoes. Top with kalamata olives and a drizzle of olive oil for Mediterranean flair.
• Vegetarian Loaded Potato Casserole: Substitute bacon with roasted mushrooms, add sautéed spinach, use vegetable broth instead of milk, and incorporate nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without meat.

What to Serve with Baked Potato Casserole

• Elevate Your Baked Potato Casserole Experience
• Crisp Beer Pairing: Select a light, crisp pilsner or pale ale to cut through the richness of the cheesy, bacon-loaded casserole and refresh your palate with each bite.
• Zesty Side Salad: Prepare a tangy green salad with mixed leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette to balance the creamy, heavy casserole and add a bright, refreshing contrast.
• Smooth Red Wine Match: Choose a medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais to complement the smoky bacon and melted cheese, providing a smooth, fruity undertone that enhances the dish's savory flavors.

Storage Advice for Baked Potato Casserole

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness.
• Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe dish, cover with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the container with the date to track storage time.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Remove casserole from refrigerator, let sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying, bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Potato Casserole

• Can I use other types of potatoes?

Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes as alternatives to russet potatoes. Just ensure they’re cut into uniform cubes for even cooking.

• Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or replace it with vegetarian bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for a similar texture and flavor.

• How can I make the cheese sauce smoother?

Whisk the flour and butter constantly while adding milk to prevent lumps, and use a low-medium heat to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

• Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.

Why Baked Potato Casserole Is a Family Favorite

• Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: A hearty casserole packed with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and tender potatoes that brings everyone together around the dinner table.
• Simple Preparation Magic: Straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all skill levels, transforming basic ingredients into a delicious crowd-favorite dish.
• Versatile Meal Solution: Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or as a satisfying side dish that complements multiple main courses and suits various meal occasions.
• Customizable Flavor Adventure: Easily adaptable recipe allows home cooks to experiment with additional toppings like sour cream, chives, or different cheese varieties to match personal taste preferences.

Ingredients List for Baked Potato Casserole

• Potatoes: Starchy and creamy base of the casserole that provides hearty texture and substance.
• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp and melty cheese that creates a rich and flavorful sauce for the casserole.
• Milk: Smooth dairy product that helps create a creamy and luxurious cheese sauce.
• Butter: Rich ingredient that adds depth of flavor and helps create a smooth sauce base.

• Salt, Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Green Onions: Fresh and mild onion flavor that adds a subtle aromatic touch to the casserole.

• Bacon Bits, Flour: Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor, while flour helps thicken the cheese sauce.

How to Bake Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect warm cooking environment.

Step 2: Prep the Potatoes

Wash and peel potatoes, then chop them into bite-sized cubes that will cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 3: Soften the Potatoes

Boil the potato cubes in a pot of water until they’re tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain completely and set aside.

Step 4: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter until smooth and golden.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce

• Flour
• Milk

Whisk in flour until the mixture is completely smooth, then slowly pour in milk. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes velvety. Season with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.

Step 6: Add Cheese Goodness

Remove the sauce from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until it melts completely, creating a rich and creamy base.

Step 7: Layer the Casserole

• Potatoes
• Green onions
• Bacon bits

In a greased baking dish, create the first layer with half of the potatoes, sprinkle green onions and bacon bits across the surface.

Step 8: First Sauce Layer

Pour half of the cheese sauce evenly over the first potato layer, ensuring every potato gets coated.

Step 9: Repeat Layering

Repeat the previous layers with the remaining potatoes, green onions, and bacon bits.

Step 10: Final Cheese Topping

Drizzle the remaining cheese sauce over the top and sprinkle additional cheddar cheese for a golden, crispy finish.

Step 11: Bake to Perfection

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the top turns golden brown and the edges are bubbly and irresistible.

Pro Tips for Baked Potato Casserole

• Rinse potatoes thoroughly to remove excess starch, ensuring a creamy texture in the casserole.
• Dice bacon into small, uniform pieces for even distribution and consistent flavor throughout the dish.
• Use room temperature milk to help create a smoother, lump-free cheese sauce with better consistency.
• Opt for sharp cheddar cheese to enhance the overall flavor profile and add depth to the casserole.
• Garnish with fresh chives or additional green onions just before serving to add a bright, fresh touch and extra crunch.