The ultimate scene-stealer side dish.

There are side dishes…and then there are these loaded mashed potatoes. Creamy, cozy, and piled high with all the good stuff, this is the kind of dish that quietly steals attention from the main course and becomes the first thing scraped clean at the dinner table.

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These mashed potatoes are rich without being heavy, indulgent without being fussy, and familiar in the best way. They’re a perfect mix of smooth, buttery potatoes and classic loaded toppings that make everyone go back for seconds (or thirds, no judgement).

Whether you’re serving them for a holiday, a dinner party, or a random Tuesday that needs a win, this is the recipe people ask about before they’ve even finished eating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Make-ahead friendly – perfect for entertaining. Prep them in advance and reheat without sacrificing texture or flavour.
Classic flavours everyone loves – think buttery potatoes, savory add-ins, and that irresistible loaded baked potato vibe.
Ultra-creamy – the texture is smooth and fluffy with just the right amount of richness – no dense, overworked potatoes here.
Flexible for any occasion – Whether it for your holiday table, weeknight comfort food, or potluck…these fit every scenario.

Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Print Recipe

Course Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 6

Ingredients

2 lbs. potatoes, peeled and cubed
2-3 tablespoons butter
⅓ cup milk (or cream, for a richer taste)
⅓ cup yogurt (or sour cream)
1¼ cup grated cheddar cheese (1 cup for mashed potatoes, ¼ cup for topping)
8 strips bacon, cooked and chopped (6 strips for mashed potatoes, 2 strips for topping)
3 green onion, chopped thin
3 tablespoons parsley, chopped (2 tablespoons for mashed potatoes, 1 tablespoon for topping)
salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Peel and cube the potatoes. Boil in a large pot of salted water until fork tender. Drain and let dry in strainer.
In a large pot, melt butter. Add milk to warm. Add potatoes and mash or whip (whichever you prefer). Stir in yogurt.
Add bacon, green onions, cheese, and parsley. Stir until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour into a baking dish and top with remaining cheese, bacon and parsley.

Keyword potato, side dish, vegetable

Keep this recipe when you’re looking for something comforting, familiar, and just indulgent enough to feel special – without being complicated or overdone. It’s a side dish that always delivers that you’ll come back to again and again.

Sides & Salads