Stuffed Baked Potato Casserole
A hearty baked potato casserole loaded with crispy bacon, melted cheese, and creamy sour cream, perfect for comforting family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes until tender and drain. Place in a casserole dish.
- Brown the bacon strips until crisp and chop or crumble.
- Blend the cooked potatoes until smooth or desired consistency.
- Add the sour cream, grated cheese, chopped green onions (if using), salt, and pepper to the potatoes and mix well.
- Mix in the crumbled bacon.
- Top with remaining cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) until the cheese is melted, about 15 minutes, or microwave until cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of milk or a dollop of cream cheese when blending the potatoes. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked bacon or turkey bacon as a healthier alternative. To enhance the flavor, try incorporating garlic powder or onion powder into the potato mixture. For added color and nutrition, toss in some steamed broccoli or spinach.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed baked potato casserole is a hearty main dish that pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, serve it alongside grilled chicken or pork recipes, such as Alabama Break Away Breakfast Bread. Garnish with extra chopped green onions for a fresh touch, and consider offering sour cream on the side for added creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Baked Potato Casserole contains roughly 596 calories, with 13g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (44% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 555mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and allow it to come to room temperature before baking, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time if needed.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Cheddar cheese is the classic choice, providing a rich flavor. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicy kick. A blend of cheeses can also add depth and complexity to the dish, making it even more delicious.
Can I freeze the stuffed baked potato casserole?
Yes, you can freeze this casserole. After baking, let it cool completely, then cover tightly with aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, ensuring it retains its creamy texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).