Loaded Mashed Potatoes with Bacon

Mashed potatoes that could be a meal. Hardy, filling, and savory. I started making mashed potatoes this way mainly for my daughter who loves loaded baked potatoes. The first time I tried this was because we were having company for dinner and I was running low on potatoes. It was the hit of the dinner. About a year after I started making them this way, we went to a restaurant that had a similar offering. My daughter said mine was still better.

• Preparation Time: 25 mins
• Cooking Time: 1 hr 10 mins
• Total Time: 1 hr 35 mins
• Calories: 473 Calories

Ingredients

• 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream
• salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 4 green onions, chopped
• 1 (8 ounce) package shredded sharp Cheddar cheese
• 1 pound turkey bacon
• 6 Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

Step 2

Lay bacon strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3

Bake in the preheated oven until browned and crisp, about 15 minutes. Drain bacon slices on paper towels. Leave oven on.

Step 4

While the bacon is cooking, place potatoes into a large pot and cover with salted water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain, place in a large mixing bowl, and mash with a fork or potato masher.

Step 5

Chop bacon and add to potatoes. Stir in sour cream, Cheddar cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper until well mixed. Transfer to a large casserole dish.

Step 6

Bake until potatoes are heated through and cheese is melted, about 45 minutes. Re-mix to blend cheese throughout and serve hot.