Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

Baked Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the classic flavors of baked potatoes with creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. It’s a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or potlucks. With layers of tender potatoes, savory cheese, and flavorful toppings, this casserole is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 6 large potatoes
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped green onions
• 1/2 cup bacon bits

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into small cubes.
3. Boil the potatoes in a pot of water until tender (about 10-15 minutes), then drain and set aside.
4. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
5. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth and slightly bubbly.
6. Gradually add the milk, stirring constantly, and cook until the mixture thickens (about 3-5 minutes).
7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper, then remove from heat and stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
8. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, layer half of the boiled potatoes, chopped green onions, and bacon bits.
9. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potato mixture, spreading it evenly.
10. Repeat the layering with the remaining potatoes, green onions, bacon bits, and cheese sauce.
11. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and golden brown on top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Add Veggies: Try adding vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the casserole for added flavor and texture.
• Different Cheese: While cheddar is a classic choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a twist.
• Sour Cream: For extra creaminess, add a dollop of sour cream to the cheese sauce or as a topping before serving.
• Loaded Version: Top the casserole with extra bacon bits, a dollop of sour cream, and chives or fresh parsley for a “loaded” baked potato experience.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Baked Potato Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes, depending on the portion size.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use russet potatoes instead of other types of potatoes?
   Yes, russet potatoes are perfect for this casserole because of their starchy texture, which holds up well when baked.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the casserole the day before, then cover and refrigerate it. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, adding a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge.
3. Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
   Yes, simply omit the bacon bits and substitute vegetable stock for the milk in the sauce, or use plant-based cheese and sour cream for a vegan version.
4. Can I freeze Baked Potato Casserole?
   Yes, this casserole freezes well. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes.
5. How can I make the cheese sauce thicker?
   If your cheese sauce is too thin, cook it a little longer, stirring frequently, to help it thicken. You can also add more flour, but be sure to cook it for a minute or two to avoid a raw flour taste.
6. Can I add garlic to the cheese sauce?
   Yes, minced garlic or garlic powder can be added to the sauce to enhance the flavor.
7. How do I make the casserole crispy on top?
   For a crispy top, you can broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes at the end of baking. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
8. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Yes, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Gruyère, or Parmesan for a unique twist on this dish.
9. Is this casserole gluten-free?
   No, this recipe uses all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
10. Can I use frozen potatoes instead of fresh potatoes?
    Yes, frozen cubed potatoes can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time since they might require a bit longer to soften during the boiling process.

Conclusion

Baked Potato Casserole is a rich, cheesy, and comforting side dish that combines all the delicious flavors of a baked potato with a creamy, flavorful cheese sauce. It’s the perfect dish to serve at a family gathering, holiday meal, or even a casual dinner. With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and satisfying taste, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you stick with the classic version or add your own personal twist, Baked Potato Casserole is always a winner!

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