Loaded Potato Crunch

 This is a very easy, very tasty recipe that is a winner for everybody! You can alter the amounts of seasonings and topping to suite your taste (I'm a cheese-aholic and like to add piles of extra cheese!)

2.5 pounds russet potatoes
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup milk
salt and pepper
1 + 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
2 green onions, and sour cream for garnish


Peel and cube the potatoes.
Add to a large saucepan and cover with water.
Bring to a boil and simmer until fork tender about 20 minutes.
Drain and add them back to the pan set over medium heat to cook off any excess water, stir for about 2 minutes then remove from heat.
Add the butter, milk, 1 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper.
Mash with a potato masher.
Mix in 3/4 cup cheddar cheese.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Grease a non-stick 15 x 10-inch (or similar size) baking sheet with oil from edge to edge making sure to get the sides too.
Spoon the potatoes out onto the pan and spread them evenly from edge to edge.
Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
Bake about 45 - 50 minutes until the bottom and edges are browned and crispy.
Sprinkle the bacon and onions over top.
Cut into squares and serve with sour cream.