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In the realm of comfort foods, few dishes evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth quite like Cheesy Ranch Potato Casserole. This delightful dish combines the rustic charm of baked potatoes with the creamy richness of ranch dressing, melty cheese, and crispy bacon, creating a symphony of flavors that is hard to resist. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this casserole serves as a dependable centerpiece that invites family and friends to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter.

Cheesy Ranch Potato Casserole

Discover the irresistible comfort of Cheesy Ranch Potato Casserole—a dish that perfectly blends creamy potatoes, zesty ranch dressing, and gooey cheese for a delightful dining experience. This casserole is not only delicious but also a great way to create cherished family memories around the table. Whether it's a chilly evening or a festive occasion, it invites warmth and laughter into your home. Perfect for sharing, this dish is a must-try for any gathering!
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs baby potatoes, halved

1 cup sour cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup ranch dressing

1/2 cup crispy bacon bits

1/2 cup green onions, chopped, divided

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon onion powder

1/4 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional for topping)

2 tablespoons olive oil (if using panko)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a 9x13 inch casserole dish by greasing it lightly with cooking spray or a touch of olive oil.

    Prepare the Potatoes: In a spacious pot, bring water to a vigorous boil and add a generous amount of salt. Once boiling, carefully add the halved baby potatoes and let them cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until you can easily pierce them with a fork. Once tender, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool for a few minutes.

      Create the Casserole Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use a whisk or spoon to mix until all the ingredients are thoroughly blended and creamy.

        Combine the Ingredients: Gently fold the cooled potatoes into the ranch mixture, ensuring they're evenly coated. Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese, all of the crispy bacon bits, and half of the chopped green onions, and stir gently to mix.

          Transfer to the Baking Dish: Carefully scoop the potato mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly to create a nice layer.

            Add Toppings: Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. If you'd like a crunchy topping, combine the panko breadcrumbs with the olive oil, tossing until they're well-coated, then sprinkle this mixture over the cheese layer.

              Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. It's ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and has turned a lovely golden color.

                Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining chopped green onions on top for a fresh burst of flavor. Allow the casserole to sit for about 5 minutes to set before serving. Enjoy this rich and cheesy comfort food!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 8 servings

                    Presentation Tips: For an added touch, serve directly from the casserole dish, garnished with a few extra bacon bits and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.