Loaded Mashed Potatoes always bring a smile to my face.  I love potatoes prepared in just about every way.  I am a big fan of mashed potatoes and bacon, so I’m always happy when they are used together in a recipe.  Growing up my Mom made mashed potatoes from a box.  They were little dried flakes that were supposed to be “potatoes” that you just add water and butter too.  I found that making mashed potatoes from scratch, not only tastes a lot better but you always know that you really are eating potatoes!

When I began making mashed potatoes, I used to only use milk for the creaminess.  I found that sour cream is a better ingredient to smooth the potatoes and create a nice flavor.

Ingredients

Feeds about 6 people.

• 6 Medium Size Russet Potatoes, skinned removed
• 1/2 stick of butter
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons of milk
• 4 oz of grated cheddar cheese
• 3 pieces of cooked bacon, chopped
• 2 teaspoons of chopped chives
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with water.  Turn on heat and wait until water is boiling.
2. Cook bacon, chop into small pieces, and set aside.
3. Peel potatoes, chop in half and boil until soft.  About 60 minutes.  You should be able to easily stick a fork into the potato.
4. Once the potatoes are done, drain and put back into pot.
5. Mash potatoes until they are crumbly.
6. Turn heat on medium.
7. Add butter and stir.
8. Once butter has melted, add sour cream, garlic powder and milk.  Stir until creamy.
9. Turn heat to low.  Add in cheese, bacon, and chives.  Stir.
10. Add salt and pepper to taste.  I add at least 2 tsp of salt.
11.  Eat and Enjoy!