This is one of my all-time favorite dishes, and it never fails to impress

I absolutely love a good home-cooked meal that brings people together, and one of my all-time favorite dishes that never fails to impress is Slow Cooker Baked Mashed Potato Casserole. There's just something about the comforting combination of tender mashed potatoes, savory bacon, gooey cheese, and creamy sour cream that always has everyone coming back for seconds. This recipe is not only incredibly delicious, but it's also incredibly easy to make, especially with the help of a slow cooker. Trust me, once you try this casserole, it will quickly become a family favorite.

Now, let me share with you the story behind this recipe. As a child, I vividly remember my mom making this casserole for Sunday dinners. The whole house would be filled with the delicious aroma of baking potatoes and sizzling bacon. As soon as the casserole was brought to the dining table, everyone's eyes would light up with anticipation. It was during these moments, surrounded by loved ones and the comforting flavors of this dish, that I realized the true power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. Now, every time I make this Slow Cooker Baked Mashed Potato Casserole, it instantly transports me back to those cherished family gatherings and fills my heart with warmth and joy.

Ingredients:

5 lbs large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup melted butter, salted
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
16 ounces cooked bacon, crumbled
16 ounces sour cream
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 chicken bouillon cubes
Optional: Fresh chives or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Place potatoes and chicken bouillon cubes in the slow cooker. Add enough water to cover potatoes.

2. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on the high setting for 5 hours. Avoid opening the lid during the cooking process.

3. Once the cooking time is complete, remove the water from the potatoes by draining.

4. Drizzle the melted butter over the potatoes and then sprinkle the salt, pepper, and onion powder. Mash the potatoes to your desired texture using a potato masher.

5. Stir in the sour cream, half of the bacon, half of the cheese, and half of the chives or green onions (if using).

6. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and cover with the lid. Cook on high for an additional 20 minutes.

Serve this delightful Slow Cooker Baked Mashed Potato Casserole as a delicious side dish for any occasion or as a comforting main course on a chilly evening. I promise you, it's so good that it will have your family and friends not only saving the recipe but also eagerly asking for seconds. The beauty of this dish is that it allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time making precious memories with your loved ones. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and be prepared to create food moments that will be cherished for years to come.