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Bacon Cheddar Mashed Potato Casserole: A Comforting Classic

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with a rich, creamy, and decadent mashed potato casserole. The Bacon Cheddar Mashed Potato Casserole takes this beloved classic to an entirely new level by adding crispy bacon and tangy cheddar cheese. This dish is not only a hearty side for any gathering but also a delightful main course perfect for chilly evenings. Let’s delve into the recipe and the secrets behind creating this scrumptious casserole.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 1.5 kg of floury potatoes, such as Maris Piper or King Edward
• 100 ml of whole milk
• 100 g of unsalted butter, softened
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Casserole:

• 200 g of mature cheddar cheese, grated
• 150 g of streaky bacon, diced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 100 g of sour cream
• 1 tsp of mustard (optional)
• Fresh chives or spring onions, chopped (for garnish)

Method

Step 1: Preparing the Mashed Potatoes

1. Peel and Chop the Potatoes: Start by peeling the potatoes and cutting them into even chunks. This ensures they cook uniformly.

2. Boil: Place the potatoes in a large pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces through them.

3. Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter and milk, then mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

Step 2: Cooking the Bacon and Aromatics

1. Fry the Bacon: In a frying pan over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until it is crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with kitchen paper, draining any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In the same pan, using the bacon fat, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients

1. Mix It All Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, sautéed onion and garlic, sour cream, and half of the grated cheddar cheese. If using, stir in the mustard for an extra kick. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Assembling the Casserole

1. Transfer to Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spoon the potato mixture into a greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.

2. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in the Oven: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or spring onions for a touch of colour and flavour.

2. Enjoy: Serve warm as a delightful side dish or main course, and watch as your guests delight in every creamy, cheesy, and smoky mouthful.

Conclusion

Bacon Cheddar Mashed Potato Casserole is a dish that will undoubtedly become a favourite in any household. It beautifully balances comforting textures with the rich flavours of cheese and bacon. Whether it’s a family gathering, a potluck, or a simple dinner, this casserole will add a touch of warmth and satisfaction to your table. So gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a comforting feast that’s perfect for any occasion!