Loaded Cheesy Potato Casserole Flavorful Family Dish

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 package cream cheese, softened
• 1 2 green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 4 cooked bacon bits (optional)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• to taste salt and pepper
• 1 2 smoked paprika
• 1 2 panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the cubed potatoes. Cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes, then drain.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes with sour cream, cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mash the potatoes, leaving some chunks for texture.
4. Fold in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, chopped green onions, and cooked bacon bits (if using) until evenly mixed.
5. Transfer the potato mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with olive oil until combined. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra green onions for a pop of color.