Loaded Cheddar Mashed Potatoes

Loaded Cheddar Mashed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor in every bite. Made with Yukon Gold potatoes, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and a touch of sour cream, this upgraded classic brings comfort and indulgence to the table with ease.

Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight meal or a holiday feast, this dish always fits right in. It pairs beautifully with everything from roasted meats to grilled veggies. Plus, warm milk and a fluffy mash give it that melt-in-your-mouth texture we all love.

Originally popularized in early American home kitchens, mashed potatoes quickly became a staple—though now, we’re all about loading them up for extra flavor and fun.

Even better? This recipe is endlessly customizable. Want more heat? Add a dash of cayenne. Prefer a smoky twist? Try smoked cheddar. However you make it, the bacon-chive topping finishes things off perfectly.

So grab your potatoes and let’s go—Loaded Cheddar Mashed Potatoes are more than just a side; they’re the kind of dish that steals the spotlight.

Recipe Yield: 6 servings

INGREDIENTS

2 ½ lb Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and halved
½ cup unsalted butter, divided (add 2 tbsp for extra creaminess, optional)
⅔ cup whole milk, warmed
⅔ cup sour cream
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
¾ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
1 ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (use extra for garnish if desired)
4 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the potatoes: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 min, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
2. Drain and mash: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Add ⅓ cup butter and mash until smooth and creamy.
3. Incorporate the liquids: Slowly mix in the warmed milk and sour cream. Stir until well combined, ensuring the mixture stays fluffy and smooth.
4. Add seasonings and cheese: Sprinkle garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper over the mashed potatoes. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
5. Add bacon: Gently fold in the crumbled bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired.
6. Finish with butter: Melt the remaining butter (about ⅓ cup) and drizzle over the top of the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
7. Garnish and serve: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a serving dish, and garnish with the reserved bacon, remaining ¼ cup of shredded cheddar, and fresh chives. Serve immediately while warm.

Helpful Tips to Perfect This Recipe

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes: Their creamy texture and rich flavor create fluffy mashed potatoes without becoming gluey.
• Warm your milk: Always use warm milk—cold milk can firm up the butter and affect creaminess.
• Cook bacon until crispy: Crisp bacon adds the best texture and flavor. Drain on paper towels before crumbling it in.