Discover the best potato recipe you’ll ever make! These Loaded Crack Potatoes are a crowd-pleasing side dish that’s perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or any gathering. Packed with creamy sour cream, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is totally addictive—hence the name! It’s easy to prepare, incredibly flavorful, and pairs perfectly with chicken, beef, pork, or even as a standalone snack. Plus, it’s versatile—halve the recipe for a family of four or double it to feed a hungry crowd. Trust us, the pan will come back licked clean!
Ingredients:
- Cooking spray
- 1 (32 ounce) package frozen hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream
- 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 (1 ounce) package ranch dressing mix
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided, or more to taste
Preparation:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 13×9-inch baking pan with cooking spray or butter. In a large bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, sour cream, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing mix, and 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well mixed. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking pan and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining Cheddar cheese on top, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned around the edges. Serve hot and watch it disappear!
For a quicker prep, try microwaving the potatoes beforehand or using pre-cooked bacon bits with a splash of bacon grease for extra flavor. Add a kick with Creole seasoning or experiment with pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist. This recipe is foolproof and customizable, making it a favorite for all ages—even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds!
