Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Buttery potatoes are mashed into this fluffy, creamy perfection and packed to the brim with those classic, flavor-bomb toppings and a generous pile of cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs russet potatoes (peeled and cut into pieces)
- 6 slices thick bacon
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon roasted garlic paste
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning (this is the dry mix)
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 3 green onions (sliced)
Instructions
- Wash, peel, and cut the potatoes. Place them in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring the pot to a boil and cook the potatoes for 18-20 minutes until soft and tender, and you can pierce them easily with a fork.
- While the potatoes boil, cook the bacon according to package instructions, in an air fryer or on the stovetop, until very crispy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain the grease, and crumble the slices into small pieces. Set aside.
- Once the potatoes are ready, drain them from the pot. Immediately add the drained potatoes back to the pot, then add the butter, garlic paste, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth. If you prefer, you can leave some chunks for texture.
- In a separate bowl, add the sour cream and ranch powder. Mix to combine. Add this mixture to the mashed potatoes along with the warm milk and stir well. Adjust with salt and pepper to taste.
- Fold in 1/2 of the shredded cheddar cheese. Spoon the mashed potatoes into a 9x13 baking dish. Smooth the top so it bakes evenly. Add the rest of the cheese and bacon on top.
- Broil in the oven for about 4-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on the oven as to not over broil. Remove from oven. Top with sliced green onion and any other toppings your heart desires. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Storage Instructions: Place leftover potatoes into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop until heated through. You may want to add a splash of milk to loosen up the potatoes a little.
Nutrition
Calories: 433kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 13gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 13gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 64mgSodium: 910mgPotassium: 836mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 559IUVitamin C: 11mgCalcium: 212mgIron: 2mg
The nutrition facts provided are calculated using a third-party tool and are estimates only. Actual nutritional content may vary based on the ingredients and brands you use, as well as portion sizes. For accurate results, please consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist.