Baked Potato Casserole: A Versatile and Nutritious Comfort Food Recipe
An Easy Loaded Baked Potato Casserole takes the classic flavors of a loaded baked potato and transforms them into a convenient, shareable dish. It’s ideal for gatherings due to its simplicity and crowd-pleasing ingredients. The main components include russet potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, and crispy bacon bits, all of which contribute to its rich and comforting flavor profile.
Ingredients
The casserole uses common ingredients available at most grocery stores:
- Russet Potatoes: These are known for their perfect texture suitable for baking.
- Cheddar Cheese: Choose sharp or mild, depending on your preference.
- Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and tang.
- Bacon Bits: You can fry your own bacon or use pre-packaged bits.
- Green Onions: Optional, but they add a fresh burst of flavor.
- Butter: Essential for richness.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the overall taste.
Preparation Time
The preparation time is minimal. You need:
- 15 minutes for prep
- 60 minutes for cooking
Steps
Follow these steps to make the casserole:
- Preheat Oven: Set to 375°F.
- Prepare Potatoes: Peel, cube, and boil until tender.
- Mix Ingredients: Combine potatoes with butter, sour cream, half of the cheddar cheese, half of the bacon bits, and seasonings in a mixing bowl.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Spread the mixture evenly.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the rest of the cheese and bacon on top.
- Bake: Place in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly.
- Garnish: Optionally top with green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with:
- Grilled Chicken: Adds protein to the meal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Balances the richness with fresh produce.
- Garden Salad: Offers a lighter side.
Formatting your meals around this Easy Loaded Baked Potato Casserole ensures that you create a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
Key Ingredients for the Casserole
Potatoes: The Star Component
Russet potatoes anchor this casserole with their fluffy texture and mild flavor. They hold shape well during cooking, making them ideal for this dish. Use about 4 to 5 medium-sized potatoes, scrubbed clean, peeled, and cut into 1-inch cubes. Parboil the cubed potatoes for 10 minutes to ensure an even cook in the oven.
Cheeses and Toppings: Customizing Your Casserole
Cheddar cheese infuses the casserole with a rich, tangy flavor. Use 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, for the best results. Sour cream adds a creamy texture and slight tang. Include 1 cup of sour cream to balance the richness of the cheese. Bacon bits contribute a crunchy texture and smoky taste. Use 1/2 cup of cooked, crumbled bacon or store-bought bacon bits. Scallions or green onions provide a fresh, zesty note. Thinly slice 2 to 3 green onions and sprinkle them on top before serving.
These ingredients create a delectable casserole that combines creamy, tangy, and smoky flavors. Adjust quantities and additions to suit your taste preferences.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparing the Potatoes
Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly, then peel them if desired. Cut the potatoes into uniform cubes, approximately 1-inch pieces, to ensure even cooking. Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium, and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, roughly 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes thoroughly in a colander, and return them to the pot.
Assembling the Casserole Layers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare the casserole. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and sliced scallions. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring it’s spread out evenly.
Baking the Casserole
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, broil the casserole for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional scallions, cheese, or bacon bits for extra flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with Proteins
Easy Loaded Baked Potato Casserole pairs excellently with many protein options. Serve it alongside grilled chicken, enhancing the savory flavors of both dishes. Opt for steak to create a hearty meal that balances the casserole’s creamy richness with the meat’s robust flavor. For a lighter option, consider broiled fish, which offers a delicate contrast to the dish’s heaviness. Barbecue ribs complement the dish’s smoky bacon bits, creating a cohesive dining experience.
Vegetable Side Dishes
Complement your Easy Loaded Baked Potato Casserole with various vegetable side dishes. Steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element, providing a healthy contrast to the casserole’s creamy texture. A fresh garden salad, featuring mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers, balances the richness with refreshing crispiness. Consider roasted Brussels sprouts, which bring a slightly bitter undertone that offsets the casserole’s rich flavors. Sautéed spinach or green beans offer a simple yet nutritious addition, enhancing the meal’s overall balance.
Nutritional Information
An Easy Loaded Baked Potato Casserole offers a delightful combination of carbs, proteins, fats, and essential nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown for one serving of the casserole:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 9g |
| Cholesterol | 40mg |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 2g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Vitamin A | 8% DV |
| Vitamin C | 15% DV |
| Calcium | 20% DV |
| Iron | 6% DV |
Calories
Each serving contains 320 calories. These calories come from the combination of russet potatoes, cheddar cheese, sour cream, and bacon bits.
Total Fat
Total fat is 18 grams per serving. Saturated fat accounts for 9 grams of this, mainly from cheese and sour cream. Fat contributes to the dish’s creamy texture and rich flavor.
Protein
You get 10 grams of protein per serving. This protein content mainly comes from cheddar cheese and bacon bits. Adding protein helps balance the carbs from potatoes.
Carbohydrates
Each serving contains 30 grams of total carbohydrates. These carbs primarily come from russet potatoes, providing you with energy. Dietary fiber is 3 grams, aiding in digestion.
Vitamins and Minerals
The casserole offers essential vitamins and minerals. You get 15% of the daily value of Vitamin C and 20% of the daily value of Calcium. Vitamins contribute to overall health, while calcium is essential for bone health.
Cholesterol and Sodium
Each serving has 40 mg of cholesterol and 600 mg of sodium. These values come from cheddar cheese, sour cream, and bacon bits. Keep these factors in mind if you’re monitoring cholesterol and sodium intake.
Understanding these nutritional facts helps you enjoy the Easy Loaded Baked Potato Casserole while being mindful of your dietary needs.
Conclusion
With its rich flavors and customizable options, the Easy Loaded Baked Potato Casserole is a delightful addition to any meal. It’s not just delicious but also offers a balanced nutritional profile, making it a smart choice for your dining table. Whether you’re pairing it with proteins or enjoying it as a standalone dish, this casserole is sure to satisfy. Remember to consider your dietary needs and enjoy this hearty dish responsibly. Happy cooking!
