Loaded Mashed Potatoes
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Loaded Mashed Potatoes
This Loaded Mashed Potatoes recipe transforms a humble side into a celebratory centerpiece. Imagine creamy, fluffy potatoes generously loaded with cheese, crisp bacon, and fresh chives. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s surprisingly simple to make and perfect for holiday feasts or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Whenever Thanksgiving rolls around, my family expects these cheesy mashed potatoes on the table. I’ve spent years perfecting the balance of sharp cheddar, smoky bacon, and creamy potato, making it the star alongside our grandma’s classic stuffing. It’s a dish that whispers of cozy gatherings, and its rich flavor pairs beautifully with lighter sides like honey roasted carrots, creating a harmonious plate. This loaded potato recipe is more than food, it’s a warm hug in a bowl.
Four Reasons This Dish Steals the Show
- Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: The combination of cheese, bacon, and chives makes this a universal favorite.
- Effortless Elegance: It looks and tastes gourmet but comes together with simple, straightforward steps.
- Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe scales beautifully, making it ideal for feeding a hungry crowd.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: Every creamy, savory bite is the definition of hearty, satisfying comfort.
What You’ll Need for Perfect Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.
For the Potatoes & Toppings
- Russet Potatoes: Their starchy texture creates the fluffiest, creamiest mash.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese, shredded: Freshly shredded melts more evenly than pre-shredded varieties.
- Bacon, cooked and crumbled: Baking the bacon ensures it gets perfectly crisp.
- Sour Cream: Adds a delightful tang and incredible richness to the potatoes.
- Butter: Use unsalted to control the overall seasoning of the dish.
- Whole Milk or Cream: Warm it slightly before adding for a smoother texture.
- Fresh Chives, chopped: They provide a mild, fresh onion flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper: Season generously, tasting as you go.
Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Make the best loaded mashed potatoes with this easy recipe! Creamy potatoes loaded with cheese, bacon, and chives – perfect comfort food side dish.
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- whisk
- oven
- 8-inch square baking pan
- spatula
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
- wire rack
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp white vinegar
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 cup cool water
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease an 8-inch square baking pan with non-stick spray or a small amount of oil and set it aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt until they are thoroughly combined and free of lumps.
- Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients. Pour the vegetable oil, white vinegar, vanilla extract, and cool water directly into the well.
- Stir the wet and dry ingredients together using a wooden spoon or spatula until the batter is just smooth and no streaks of flour remain. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and use your spatula to spread it into an even layer.
- Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before slicing into squares and serving.
Ways to Customize Your Creation
- Extra Cheesy Version: Add a blend of Monterey Jack and Gruyère along with the cheddar.
- Loaded Baked Potato Style: Stir in a spoonful of ranch dressing mix for that classic flavor.
- Make It a Meal: Fold in diced, cooked ham or shredded rotisserie chicken to turn it into a main dish.
Secrets to the Creamiest Mashed Potatoes
- Warm Your Dairy: Let the milk and sour cream sit out to take the chill off before mixing them in.
- Don’t Overwork: Over-mixing the potatoes can release too much starch, making them gummy instead of fluffy.
- Season the Water: Boil your potatoes in well-salted water, as this is your first chance to build flavor.
- Drain Thoroughly: Let the potatoes steam dry in the colander for a minute to avoid watery mash.
Keeping Your Loaded Mashed Potatoes Fresh
- Store: Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving some headspace. They will keep well for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave with a splash of milk.
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can make the mashed potato base a day ahead, store it covered in the fridge, and stir in the toppings just before baking and serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Idahos are ideal for mashed potatoes because they break down easily, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. For a slightly waxier, creamier mash, Yukon Golds are also an excellent choice.
Can you make loaded mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the mashed potato base a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and fold in the cheese, bacon, and chives just before you reheat and serve it for the best texture.
How do you keep mashed potatoes warm for a party?
Transfer them to a slow cooker set on the “warm” setting. You can also keep them warm in a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally to prevent a skin from forming.
Why are my mashed potatoes gluey?
Gluey potatoes are often the result of over-mixing. Using a food processor or overworking them with an electric mixer releases too much starch. A potato ricer, food mill, or gentle hand-mashing is best.
More Comforting Side Dishes You’ll Love
Why This Loaded Mashed Potatoes Recipe Is a Keeper
With its unbeatable combination of creamy texture and savory toppings, this dish is guaranteed to become a regular request. It’s the perfect quick potato side dish that feels indulgent yet is deceptively simple to prepare. I hope this recipe brings as much comfort and joy to your table as it does to mine.
