Heavenly! We've tried many versions of this recipe but keep coming back to this one!

Hey there, friends! Today, I'd like to share with you all a cozy dish that's become a family treasure over the years. My Loaded Scalloped Potato Casserole is more than just a recipe – it's a warm hug on a plate, perfect for those chillier evenings or when you're in need of a little comfort. This dish melds the creamy, cheesy goodness of traditional scalloped potatoes with the heartiness of a loaded baked potato, all while presenting itself as a feast for the eyes and the belly. Whether it's for a Sunday dinner or a special gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to have your loved ones coming back for seconds, maybe even thirds!

To make this meal even more splendid, I love to serve it with a side of crisp green beans or a fresh garden salad—nothing too fancy, just some simple veggies lightly dressed to complement the richness of the casserole. And if you're anything like my family, a side of warm, fluffy dinner rolls is practically a must to sop up all that creamy sauce. Mmm, I'm getting hungry just thinking about it!

Servings: 8-10 generous helpings

Ingredients:

- 3 pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 6 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled, and more for topping
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped for garnish

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and butter a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, mix together half of the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, milk, melted butter, crispy bacon crumbles, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.

3. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the prepared dish. Spread half of the cheese mixture over the potatoes.

4. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and cheese mixture, making sure to press down to ensure the potatoes are submerged in the creamy sauce.

5. Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 60 minutes.

6. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top (and optionally additional bacon), and bake uncovered for another 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the potatoes are tender.

7. Let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before sprinkling with fresh chives and serving.

Variations & Tips:

For families with little ones or picky eaters, you can easily customize this casserole. Try swapping out the sharp cheddar for a milder colby jack, or omit the onions and substitute with onion powder for a subtler flavor. For an extra veggie kick, toss in some chopped spinach or broccoli into the cheese mixture before layering. And here's a tip: always let your casserole rest a bit after pulling it out of the oven. This allows the sauce to thicken and the flavors to meld—patience is the secret ingredient to the perfect slice! Enjoy, everyone!