why make this recipe
Loaded Mashed Potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re a celebration of hearty comfort food. This recipe combines creamy mashed potatoes with a delightful mix of toppings, making it a dish everyone loves. It’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or just when you want to treat yourself.
The richness of butter, sour cream, and cheese creates a flavor explosion that enhances every bite. Meanwhile, crispy bacon and fresh green onions add just the right amount of texture. You’ll find that this recipe caters to everyone, from kids to adults, ensuring that everyone has a delicious experience.
equipment needed for Loaded Mashed Potatoes
To prepare Loaded Mashed Potatoes, you’ll need some essential kitchen equipment. A high-quality skillet for frying bacon ensures even cooking and perfect crunch. Additionally, you’ll need a large pot for boiling potatoes, which is crucial for achieving that delightful, fluffy texture.
A potato masher is necessary to create smooth, creamy mashed potatoes that blend well with the ingredients. You’ll also benefit from mixing bowls to combine the sour cream and milk. Lastly, a serving dish allows you to present this luscious dish beautifully.
What You Need to Make Loaded Mashed Potatoes
- 3 1/2 lbs. Yukon Gold potatoes
- 6 strips bacon, preferably thick cut
- 6 tablespoons salted butter, at room temperature
- 3/4 cup sour cream
- 3/4 cup milk
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups orange cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 green onions, sliced
How to Cook Loaded Mashed Potatoes Step by Step
Start by preparing your bacon. Cut the strips into halves or thirds, and place them in a skillet over low heat. Fry the bacon until it becomes crispy. Once done, carefully transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease. Let the bacon cool, and then chop it into smaller pieces.
Next, you need to prepare the mashed potatoes. Take the Yukon Gold potatoes, peel them, and cut them into 3/4 inch slices. Place the sliced potatoes in a large pot filled with cold water. This helps to ensure even cooking and prevents the potatoes from browning.
Once your potatoes are in the pot, bring the water to a gentle boil. After boiling, add three teaspoons of salt. Cook the potatoes for about 25 minutes until they are fork-tender, meaning they can be easily pierced with a fork. When the potatoes are cooked, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot.
Now it’s time to add some flavor to the potatoes. Add the room temperature salted butter to the drained potatoes. Let the potato and butter mixture sit for about three minutes to allow the butter to melt properly. After that, use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy.
Gradually mix in the sour cream and milk mixture. To make this, whisk together the sour cream and milk in a bowl first, then add it to the mashed potatoes. Continue mashing until everything is fully combined. You’ll know the consistency is just right when it’s fluffy but still holds its structure.
Stir in the shredded cheese, half of the chopped bacon, and half of the sliced green onions. This will add extra layers of flavor to the mixture. Taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
Finally, transfer the Loaded Mashed Potatoes to a beautiful serving dish. Top them with the remaining shredded cheese, bacon pieces, and green onions. For a melty finish, you can micro-cook the dish for about 30 seconds to warm and slightly melt the cheese before serving.
how to make Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Making Loaded Mashed Potatoes starts with selecting the right ingredients, especially the Yukon Gold potatoes. Their creamy texture and buttery flavor make them perfect for mashing. The process involves preparing the bacon first to add that crispy element to your mashed potatoes.
After frying the bacon, the next crucial step is boiling the potatoes until they are tender. Matching the right amount of butter, milk, and sour cream helps you achieve a creamy consistency. Incorporate the toppings at the right time with the hot mashed potatoes to enhance the overall dish.
The key is to mix in all the components while the potatoes are still warm. This allows the melted cheese to blend effortlessly with the potatoes, creating a deliciously rich taste. Topping everything off with fresh green onions gives a nice contrast and brightness to the hearty flavors.
how to serve Loaded Mashed Potatoes
When serving Loaded Mashed Potatoes, presentation is important. You want the dish to look tempting and inviting. Use a large, attractive serving bowl and ensure the mashed potatoes are mounded high. This gives a pleasing look and allows guests to help themselves easily.
As you dish out servings, make sure to include generous amounts of the toppings. Everyone loves getting a taste of crispy bacon, extra cheese, and fresh green onions with each scoop. Not only do these toppings add flavor, but they also create a gorgeous visual appeal.
Loaded Mashed Potatoes can be served immediately while they’re still warm. If you need to prepare them in advance, keep them warm in a slow cooker on low heat. Stir them occasionally to maintain the creamy texture and avoid drying out.
what to serve with Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Loaded Mashed Potatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served alongside various main dishes. They pair wonderfully with beef, poultry, or pork. For example, grilled chicken, roasted turkey, or steak would all make excellent matches.
You can also enjoy them with vegetarian options like grilled vegetables or a hearty salad. Adding a rich gravy or a barbecue sauce can enhance the flavor profile of the overall meal. Think of it as an opportunity to get creative based on dietary preferences and seasonal ingredients.
For a full spread, consider serving other comfort foods like creamy coleslaw or steamed green beans. This creates a well-rounded meal that satisfies diverse palates and complements the richness of the Loaded Mashed Potatoes.
how to store Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Storing Loaded Mashed Potatoes is straightforward. If you have leftovers, let them cool completely first. Transfer the cooled potatoes into an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh for a longer time.
You can safely store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Divide the mashed potatoes into portion-sized servings and store them in freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last for up to three months in the freezer.
When you’re ready to enjoy the leftovers, thaw the potatoes in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or a pat of butter if they seem too thick.
tips to make Loaded Mashed Potatoes
To make the best Loaded Mashed Potatoes, selecting the right type of potato is essential. Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal due to their creamy texture. If you can’t find them, red potatoes or Russets can also work fine.
Another tip is to use room temperature ingredients. This includes butter, sour cream, and milk. When they are warmed to room temperature, they blend better into the hot mashed potatoes, creating a smoother consistency.
Mash your potatoes while they are still hot for the best texture. The heat encourages the creamy ingredients to blend beautifully without clumping. Lastly, save some crispy bacon and cheese to sprinkle on top before serving; this makes for a more appealing presentation.
variation
If you’d like to switch things up, consider adding some garlic to kick up the flavor. Roasted garlic can be mixed into the mashed potatoes for a more savory depth. Alternatively, experimenting with different cheeses like pepper jack or gouda can introduce exciting flavors.
For a healthier twist, try adding some steamed broccoli or spinach to the mixture for a nutritious boost. This not only adds color but also makes your Loaded Mashed Potatoes even more delightful and visually appealing.
best time to make Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Loaded Mashed Potatoes are perfect for any occasion. They shine during holiday celebrations, especially Thanksgiving and Christmas, as they complement the festive spirit. Family gatherings and potluck parties are another great time to share this dish.
In addition, they make an excellent weekday comfort food for a simple dinner at home. Whenever you crave something indulgent or feel the need for warmth on a chilly day, making Loaded Mashed Potatoes is an excellent choice.
common mistakes to avoid
One common mistake when making Loaded Mashed Potatoes is overcooking the potatoes. This can make them watery and gummy, ruining the texture. To avoid this, start checking for doneness a few minutes early.
Another mistake is not seasoning adequately. Taste the potatoes as you mix in the toppings, and adjust salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. Not using room temperature ingredients can also lead to a lumpy texture, as cold items can cool the hot potatoes too quickly.
Finally, don’t forget to let the bacon cool properly before chopping it. If it’s still hot, it may crumble too much, losing that satisfying crunch.
nutritional notes
Loaded Mashed Potatoes, while delicious, can be rich in calories and fats due to their creamy ingredients and cheese. Each serving typically holds a generous portion of carbohydrates from the potatoes, as well as protein from the cheese and bacon.
To balance this dish nutritionally, consider serving it with a protein-rich main, like grilled chicken or fish. Adding vegetables can enhance the meal’s fiber content and provide a more well-rounded nutrition profile.
FAQs
Can I use another type of potato?
Yes, you can use other potatoes like Russets or red potatoes, though Yukon Gold is recommended for its creamy texture.
Can I make these potatoes in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and reheat before serving.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute. It offers a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture while enhancing the nutritional value.
conclusion
Loaded Mashed Potatoes are a beloved comfort food that brings joy to any table. Their creamy, cheesy goodness combined with crunchy bacon and bright green onions makes them irresistible. Whether you serve them during special occasions or cozy nights at home, they’re sure to satisfy.
By following this recipe, you’ll master the art of making Loaded Mashed Potatoes that everyone will rave about. With a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a scrumptious dish that warms hearts and fills stomachs. Enjoy them as a comforting side or load them up just as you like for a meal that’s just as delightful.
