Spicy Loaded Potato Casserole

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 30 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
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If you're looking to spice up your dinner routine, this Spicy Loaded Potato Casserole is a must-try. It combines the comforting heartiness of potatoes with a zesty kick, making it perfect for those nights when you need a little extra warmth and flavor.

Ingredients for Spicy Loaded Potato Casserole

Russet potatoes are the ideal choice for mashing because they turn creamy and smooth. Sour cream adds a tangy richness, making the potatoes even creamier. Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, melty finish that pairs perfectly with the spices. Green onions add a fresh, mild onion flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and potatoes. The spicy sausage brings heat and savory depth, while jalapeños add an extra spicy kick. Bacon bits offer a crispy, salty contrast, and black olives contribute a subtle, briny note. Butter enriches the mashed potatoes with a silky texture. Garlic powder and smoked paprika enhance the overall flavor, while salt and pepper balance the dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For a smokier flavor, try using smoked cheddar cheese.
  • If you like it extra spicy, leave the jalapeño seeds in.
  • For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream.
  • Use pre-cooked bacon bits to save time, or crisp up fresh bacon if you prefer.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, balancing the richness of the dish. It also goes well with grilled chicken or steak, making it a hearty meal. For a vegetarian option, omit the sausage and bacon, and serve alongside a hearty vegetable soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to the baking step and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked casserole. Wrap portions in foil and store in airtight containers for up to three months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
What can I use instead of spicy sausage?
If you prefer less heat, use mild sausage or even ground beef for a different flavor profile.

Spicy Loaded Potato Casserole Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). While that's heating up, peel and cube your russet potatoes. Boil them in a large pot of salted water for about 15 minutes, or until they're fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them up with the sour cream and melted butter until you get a nice, creamy consistency.

Next, sprinkle in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the crumbled spicy sausage, chopped jalapeños, bacon bits, and sliced black olives. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the flavors are evenly distributed.

Transfer this delicious mash into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Smooth out the top with a spatula, then generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over it. Pop it in the oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and has a golden-brown hue.

Once it's done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Before serving, garnish with the chopped green onions to add a fresh, vibrant touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Packs a punch with spicy sausage and jalapeños.
  • Combines creamy mashed potatoes with crispy bacon bits for a delightful texture contrast.
  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Rich, cheesy topping makes it irresistible for cheese lovers.

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped green onions
1/2 lb cooked and crumbled spicy sausage
1/2 cup chopped jalapeños
1/2 cup bacon bits
1/2 cup sliced black olives
1/4 cup melted butter
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Peel and cube the potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes and mash them with sour cream and melted butter.
4. Mix in the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir in the crumbled sausage, chopped jalapeños, bacon bits, and sliced black olives.
6. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly on top.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

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