Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Bake the potatoes
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Pierce the potatoes several times with a fork and bake directly on the oven rack for 55 to 75 minutes, until a knife slides easily into the center.
- Let the potatoes cool for about 10 minutes.
- Halve the potatoes lengthwise and scoop the flesh into a large bowl; discard the skins.
Make the casserole
- Set aside 1 tablespoon of the butter to grease the baking dish.
- Add the remaining 7 tablespoons butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the potatoes, then mash until combined but still slightly chunky.
- Fold in 1 1/2 cups of the cheddar.
- Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with the reserved butter and spread the potato mixture in it.
- Reduce the oven to 375°F and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup cheddar over the top.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until hot throughout and the cheese is melted.
Make the topping
- While the casserole bakes, cook the bacon in a 12-inch skillet over medium heat for 8 to 12 minutes, stirring often, until browned and crisp.
- Drain the bacon on paper towels.
Finish the casserole
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes.
- Scatter the bacon and green onions over the top.
Notes
For the best texture, mash the potatoes until combined but still slightly chunky. Refrigerate leftovers for 3 to 4 days; freezing is possible, though the texture may soften. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free butter, sour cream, milk, and cheddar.
