Get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure comfort with our recipe for Loaded Mashed Potatoes. These potatoes are the epitome of creamy goodness, with a velvety smooth texture that's sure to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. They are perfect side dish for a holiday meal or special occasion. Best of all, they're incredibly easy to make!
2tablespoonschopped fresh chives or 2 teaspoons dried chives
¼teaspoonfreshly ground black pepper
1 ½cupscheddar cheesedivided
8ouncesbaconcooked and crumbled
Optional: half and half or milk for thinning
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350 ° F. Spray a 2-quart baking dish with cooking spray.
Put the cubed potatoes, garlic, and ½ teaspoon salt in a large saucepan and cover with water.
Bring to a boil, and then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 15 minutes or until tender.
Drain and return to the pot. Dice the butter and sprinkle over the potatoes. Mash with a potato masher. Stir in the sour cream, chives, remaining ½ teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Stir in half of the cheese. If desired, thin with half and half, 1 tablespoon at a time.
Transfer to the prepared baking dish sprinkle with the remaining cheese, and top with the bacon.
Cover with foil and cook for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and cook for another 10 minutes, until bubbly.