Creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly comforting, Golden Potato Surprise is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion! This loaded mashed potato casserole takes your favorite comfort food to the next level with layers of buttery, russet potatoes blended with cream cheese, heavy cream, and sharp cheddar, seasoned to perfection with garlic powder and black pepper. The “surprise” lies in the middle—a hidden layer of gooey melted cheese that’s revealed with every scoop! Topped with crispy bacon, a dusting of paprika, and optional fresh parsley, this dish boasts a golden, bubbly finish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or potlucks. Easy to prepare and packed with indulgent flavors, Golden Potato Surprise is a surefire way to impress your guests and elevate your casserole game!
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Peel the potatoes, then chop them into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with water.
Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Fold in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, green onions, and half of the crumbled bacon, ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish, then spread half of the mashed potato mixture into the bottom of the dish.
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese (1/2 cup) evenly over the potato layer to create the 'surprise' center.
Spread the rest of the mashed potato mixture on top, ensuring the cheese layer is fully covered.
Sprinkle the top with paprika and the remaining bacon for extra flavor and presentation.
Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your Golden Potato Surprise!
Calories |
4018 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 275.6 g | 353% | |
| Saturated Fat | 157.7 g | 788% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 836 mg | 279% | |
| Sodium | 6239 mg | 271% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 249.7 g | 91% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 19.7 g | 70% | |
| Total Sugars | 17.4 g | ||
| Protein | 128.4 g | 257% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.4 mcg | 7% | |
| Calcium | 1925 mg | 148% | |
| Iron | 15.4 mg | 86% | |
| Potassium | 6827 mg | 145% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.