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Savory Loaded Baked Potato Casserole Recipe with Easy Beer Cheese Sauce

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A comforting and hearty casserole featuring creamy baked potatoes, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and a rich, tangy beer cheese sauce. Perfect for casual entertaining and quick weeknight meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large Russet baked potatoes, cooled
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1/2 cup beer (smooth lager or pale ale)
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (for cheese sauce)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
  • 1 cup sour cream

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce 4 large Russet potatoes with a fork and bake directly on the oven rack for 45-60 minutes until tender. Let cool completely before handling.
  2. Cook 6 slices of bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cooled.
  3. In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter over medium heat. Whisk in 4 tablespoons flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden but not browned.
  4. Slowly whisk in 2 cups milk and 1/2 cup beer, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until thickened, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Turn off heat and stir in 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, salt, and pepper to taste until smooth and melted.
  6. Peel cooled potatoes and place in a large mixing bowl. Mash lightly with a fork or potato masher to retain some texture.
  7. Mix in 1 cup sour cream, 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon (reserve some for topping), and sliced green onions. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Spread the potato mixture evenly in a prepared 9×13-inch casserole dish. Pour the warm beer cheese sauce evenly over the top.
  9. Bake casserole at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  10. Sprinkle reserved bacon and extra green onions over the hot casserole before serving.

Notes

Keep whisking the cheese sauce off heat if holding before assembling to prevent thickening. Do not over-mash potatoes to maintain texture. Let casserole rest 5-10 minutes after baking for best slicing. For vegetarian version, omit bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika. Use gluten-free flour for gluten-free adaptation.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked potato casserole, beer cheese sauce, loaded potato casserole, bacon casserole, comfort food, easy casserole, party side dish

Find it online: https://tastytuck.com/savory-loaded-baked-potato-casserole-recipe-with-easy-beer-cheese-sauce/