Loaded Mashed Potatoes

There isn't much that needs to be said about this dish except: YUM! We love potatoes, bacon, cheese, ranch, etc... basically every ingredient that goes into this recipe is in our list of favorite things. This was a perfect side for some simple BBQ chicken, but probably could be a meal on it's own if I was feeling like keeping it simple. It would go well with pretty much anything! (I've also read that you can make these ahead of time and then just keep them in the crock pot on warm to keep them until dinner time.) 

Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Source: The Peaden Kitchen

Ingredients:
6-8 medium russet potatoes
1/4 cup butter
1 cup sour cream
1 teaspoons parsley flakes
1 teaspoon garlic salt

1 tablespoon ranch seasoning 

salt and pepper, to taste (ample amounts)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
4-5 pieces bacon, cooked and crumbled

Green onion, optional

Directions: 

Peel and cut potatoes into cubes. Place in medium/large pan and cover with water. Bring to a boil them simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until potatoes are soft. Dump potatoes into a large kitchen-aid. Add butter, sour cream, parsley, garlic salt, ranch seasoning, salt and pepper. Mix on medium speed until smooth and creamy. Using a spoon add most of the cheese and bacon, reserving a small amount of each. Scoop onto plates and top with remaining cheese bacon and green onion. Serve immediately. 

Optional continued directions:
Spoon into a greased 9x13-inch pan or casserole dish and sprinkle with cheese and bacon. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.