Mom's Loaded Mashed Potatoes

These are no ordinary mashed potatoes. My mom introduced me to the world of loaded mashed potatoes a few years ago, and I have gained an estimated 4lbs. solely because of this side dish. It's just too good, and reading this blog won't serve it justice. Just make them, pretty pretty please.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (I use premade mashed potatoes, or you can make my garlic mashed potatoes from scratch), stir in your favorite mix-in's such as:
• 3/4 cup shredded cheese (I like cheddar), plus additional shredded cheese for the top
• 1/2 cup crumbled bacon (Bacon bits work well if you're in a hurry)
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• Minced garlic or garlic powder
• 1/2 cup sliced green onion (optional)

Directions:

• Cook potatoes as directed (whether homemade or packaged)
  
• Combine all ingredients
• Spread in a greased cassarole pan, sprinkle with additional shredded cheese, and bake at 350 degress until warm (about 20 minutes). I placed my potatoes in individual ramekins (pictured) which are great for intimate dinner parties.
• Top with chives

Love and taters,

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