Indulge in the ultimate comfort food experience with our Slow Cooker Baked Mashed Potato Casserole. This crowd-pleasing dish combines creamy mashed potatoes with the irresistible flavors of melted cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy sour cream. Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or weeknight dinners, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household. Join us as we dive into the step-by-step process of creating this deliciously satisfying meal in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
- 5 lbs large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup melted butter, salted
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 16 ounces cooked bacon, crumbled
- 16 ounces sour cream
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 chicken bouillon cubes
- Optional: Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes.
- Cook the Potatoes:
- Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Add the chicken bouillon cubes to the water for extra flavor.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Mash the Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Use a potato masher or hand mixer to mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Add the Goodies:
- Stir in the melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, sour cream, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker:
- Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Transfer the mashed potato mixture to the slow cooker insert and spread it out evenly.
- Cook to Perfection:
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and cook the mashed potato casserole on low heat for 4-6 hours, or until heated through and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once cooked, sprinkle the top of the casserole with fresh chives or green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor.
- Serve the Slow Cooker Baked Mashed Potato Casserole hot, straight from the slow cooker, and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Creamy Consistency: For extra creamy mashed potatoes, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to the mixture until you reach your desired consistency.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your toppings by adding diced green onions, crispy fried onions, or even a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version of this casserole. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for a meaty texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use a different type of potato for this recipe? A: While russet potatoes are traditionally used for mashed potatoes due to their fluffy texture, you can experiment with other varieties such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a different flavor and texture profile.
Q: Can I prepare this casserole in advance? A: Yes, you can prepare the mashed potato mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to cook, simply transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and follow the cooking instructions as directed.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this casserole? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover mashed potato casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I make this casserole gluten-free? A: Yes, you can make this casserole gluten-free by ensuring that all ingredients used, including the chicken bouillon cubes and any seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
Q: Can I use different cheeses in this recipe? A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Swiss to customize the flavor of the casserole to your liking.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can adapt this recipe:
- Keto Version: Replace the russet potatoes with cauliflower florets for a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes. Substitute the shredded cheddar cheese with a keto-friendly cheese such as mozzarella or cream cheese. Omit the bacon or use turkey bacon to reduce the fat content.
- Low-Carb Version: Follow the keto version adjustments above, and consider reducing the amount of sour cream or using a low-fat sour cream to lower the carb content further. You can also add diced bell peppers or broccoli florets for added fiber and nutrients.
Treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Slow Cooker Baked Mashed Potato Casserole. With its creamy texture, cheesy goodness, and crispy bacon bits, this casserole is sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. Whether served as a side dish for holiday feasts or enjoyed as a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to savor the irresistible flavor of this deliciously satisfying casserole!
