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Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, savory mashed potatoes loaded with bacon, cheese, and sour cream, perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 68 people
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 3 pounds russet potatoes peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 6 slices bacon chopped
  • 4 tablespoons butter cubed
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream warmed
  • 1/4 cup sour cream
  • 3/4 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 3 green onions sliced thin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • Large pot with lid
  • Colander or fine mesh strainer
  • Potato ricer or masher
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Skillet for cooking bacon
  • Knife for chopping

Method
 

  1. Chop your bacon into small pieces and cook them in a skillet over medium heat until they're crispy, about 8 to 10 minutes.
  2. Transfer crispy bacon to paper towels to drain, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
  3. Peel and cut russet potatoes into 2-inch chunks.
  4. Place potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold salted water, using about 1 tablespoon of salt per gallon.
  5. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 15 to 18 minutes until fork-tender.
  6. Drain the potatoes in a colander and let them sit for 1 minute to evaporate excess moisture.
  7. Return the drained potatoes to the hot pot and mash using a potato ricer or masher.
  8. Warm heavy cream and prepare sour cream at room temperature.
  9. Add cubed butter to the hot, riced potatoes and stir until melted.
  10. Slowly fold in warmed cream and then the sour cream.
  11. Add shredded cheddar cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.
  12. Transfer potatoes to a serving bowl and top with crispy bacon and green onions.

Notes

Perfect as a side dish for grilled meats or as a comfort food classic.