Mashed Potato Casserole with Smoked Gouda and Bacon

Ingredients:
6 slices thick-cut smoked bacon (preferably applewood smoked)
3 large green onions (white and pale green parts only), finely chopped
3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled, cut into 1 1/2" cubes
3/4 cup sour cream
1/3 cup whole milk
1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
2 cups coarsely grated smoked Gouda, divided

Directions:
*Butter 13x9x2" baking dish.
*Preheat oven to 375 degrees (F).
*Cook bacon in heavy large skillet until golden brown and crisp.
*Transfer to paper towels to drain.
*Chop bacon. Place in medium bowl.
*Add green onions and toss to distribute evenly.
*Place potatoes in large pot and add enough cold water to cover. Sprinkle with salt.
*Cover and boil with lid slightly ajar until potatoes are tender, 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
*Return potatoes to pot.
*Cook over low heat, stirring often, until potatoes are dry and light film forms on bottom of pot, about 2 minutes.
*Add next 3 ingredients.
*Using potato masher, mash until almost smooth.
*Stir in 1 1/2 cups smoked Gouda and 1 cup bacon mixture.
*Season with salt and pepper.
*Spread potato mixture in prepared baking dish.
*Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup Gouda over.
*Can be prepared 8 hours ahead.
*Cover and chill potato mixture and remaining bacon mixture separately.
*Bake potatoes until cheese melts and edges of potatoes are bubbling, about 30 minutes (40 minutes if chilled first).
*Sprinkle reserved bacon mixture over and serve.

Source: Bon Appetit Magazine

Submitted by: Michelle Meadows Turner