Level Up Your Dinner: Delicious Recipes Featuring Costco’s New Loaded Mashed Potatoes
Costco strikes again! Their new loaded mashed potatoes are flying off the shelves, and for good reason. They’re creamy, cheesy, packed with bacon bits, and incredibly convenient. But while they’re delicious on their own, let’s explore how to transform these already amazing mashed potatoes into truly unforgettable meals. This article will give you several creative and satisfying recipes that start with Costco’s loaded mashed potatoes as a base, saving you time and effort in the kitchen while delivering restaurant-quality results.
## Why Costco’s Loaded Mashed Potatoes Are a Game Changer
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s appreciate why these mashed potatoes are so popular. They offer several key advantages:
* **Convenience:** Pre-made and ready to heat, they drastically reduce meal prep time, especially on busy weeknights.
* **Flavor:** The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, cheddar cheese, bacon bits, and chives creates a rich and savory flavor profile that appeals to almost everyone.
* **Texture:** The potatoes are perfectly smooth and creamy, avoiding the dreaded lumps that can sometimes plague homemade versions.
* **Cost-Effective:** For the amount of flavor and convenience, they’re a surprisingly affordable option for feeding a family or entertaining guests.
* **Versatility:** As we’ll see, they’re incredibly versatile and can be used as a base for a wide variety of dishes.
## Recipe 1: Shepherd’s Pie with a Costco Loaded Mashed Potato Twist
Shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food, and using Costco’s loaded mashed potatoes takes it to a whole new level. The cheesy, bacon-infused topping adds a depth of flavor that traditional mashed potato toppings can’t match.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container (approximately 3 pounds) Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 carrots, peeled and diced
* 2 celery stalks, diced
* 1 pound ground beef (or lamb for traditional shepherd’s pie)
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1/2 cup beef broth
* 1/4 cup tomato paste
* 1 cup frozen peas
* 1 cup frozen corn
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Meat Filling:** Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Brown the Meat:** Add ground beef (or lamb) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
3. **Add Flavor:** Stir in dried thyme, dried rosemary, beef broth, and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. **Incorporate Vegetables:** Stir in frozen peas and corn. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are heated through.
5. **Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping:** While the meat filling is simmering, heat the Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes according to the package instructions. You can microwave them, bake them in the oven, or heat them in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.
6. **Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the meat filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread the heated Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes evenly over the top of the meat filling.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potato topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
8. **Serve:** Let the shepherd’s pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Worcestershire Sauce:** For an extra layer of umami flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce to the meat filling.
* **Use Different Vegetables:** Feel free to substitute other vegetables, such as green beans, mushrooms, or diced potatoes, for the peas and corn.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
* **Top with Cheese:** For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking.
## Recipe 2: Loaded Mashed Potato Bowls with Pulled Pork
These loaded mashed potato bowls are a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, tender pulled pork, and your favorite toppings is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container (approximately 3 pounds) Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes
* 1 pound pre-cooked pulled pork (Costco’s is a great option!)
* BBQ sauce, to taste
* Toppings of your choice (see suggestions below)
**Topping Suggestions:**
* Shredded cheddar cheese
* Diced red onion
* Pickled jalapeños
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt
* Chopped cilantro
* Diced tomatoes
* Avocado slices
* Coleslaw
* Corn kernels
**Instructions:**
1. **Heat the Mashed Potatoes:** Heat the Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes according to the package instructions.
2. **Heat the Pulled Pork:** Heat the pulled pork according to the package instructions. Toss with your favorite BBQ sauce.
3. **Assemble the Bowls:** Divide the heated mashed potatoes among bowls. Top with pulled pork, your choice of toppings, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
4. **Serve:** Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Make it Spicy:** Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mashed potatoes or pulled pork.
* **Use Different Protein:** Substitute the pulled pork with shredded chicken, brisket, or even vegetarian options like black beans or seasoned tofu.
* **Add a Fried Egg:** Top each bowl with a fried egg for an extra protein boost and added richness.
* **Get Creative with Toppings:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different toppings to create your perfect loaded mashed potato bowl.
## Recipe 3: Crispy Potato Croquettes with a Cheesy Center
These crispy potato croquettes are a delicious appetizer or side dish. Using Costco’s loaded mashed potatoes makes them incredibly easy to prepare, and the cheesy center is a delightful surprise.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container (approximately 3 pounds) Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes
* 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
* 2 large eggs, beaten
* 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
* 4 ounces cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
* Vegetable oil, for frying
**Instructions:**
1. **Chill the Mashed Potatoes:** If the Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes are already heated, allow them to cool completely and then chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This will make them easier to handle.
2. **Prepare the Breading Station:** Set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the all-purpose flour. In the second dish, place the beaten eggs. In the third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
3. **Form the Croquettes:** Take a spoonful of the chilled mashed potatoes and flatten it slightly in your hand. Place a cube of cheddar cheese in the center. Gently wrap the mashed potatoes around the cheese to form a ball or oval shape. Repeat with the remaining mashed potatoes and cheese.
4. **Bread the Croquettes:** Dredge each croquette in the flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.
5. **Fry the Croquettes:** Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F (175°C). Carefully drop the croquettes into the hot oil, a few at a time, and fry for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. **Drain and Serve:** Remove the croquettes from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Serve immediately.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Herbs:** Mix chopped fresh herbs, such as chives or parsley, into the mashed potatoes for added flavor.
* **Use Different Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, pepper jack, or Gruyere, for the filling.
* **Bake the Croquettes:** For a healthier option, bake the croquettes instead of frying them. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded croquettes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
* **Serve with Dipping Sauce:** Serve the croquettes with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli.
## Recipe 4: Mashed Potato Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the comfort of mashed potatoes with the freshness of bell peppers for a colorful and flavorful dish. It’s a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes and sneak in some extra vegetables.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 bell peppers (any color), halved lengthwise and seeded
* 1 container (approximately 3 pounds) Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes
* 1/2 cup cooked sausage or ground beef, crumbled (optional)
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper (same color as the ones being stuffed, optional)
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Olive oil
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Bell Peppers:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly brush the inside of the bell pepper halves with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place them cut-side up in a baking dish.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** In a bowl, combine the Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes, cooked sausage or ground beef (if using), chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the mashed potatoes are cold, heat them slightly to make them easier to work with.
3. **Stuff the Bell Peppers:** Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the bell pepper halves, filling them generously. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
4. **Bake:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. **Serve:** Let the stuffed bell peppers cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Beans:** Mix cooked black beans or pinto beans into the mashed potato filling for added protein and fiber.
* **Use Different Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses.
* **Add Spices:** Add a pinch of chili powder, cumin, or smoked paprika to the mashed potato filling for extra flavor.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the sausage or ground beef and add more vegetables, such as corn, black beans, or diced tomatoes, to the filling.
## Recipe 5: Loaded Mashed Potato and Ham Casserole
This casserole is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a potluck or family gathering. It’s easy to assemble and can be made ahead of time.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container (approximately 3 pounds) Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes
* 2 cups cubed cooked ham
* 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
* 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup
* 1/2 cup milk
* 1/4 cup chopped onion
* 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 1/4 cup bread crumbs
* 2 tablespoons melted butter
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish:** Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes, cubed ham, frozen mixed vegetables, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, and chopped onion. Mix well to combine.
3. **Pour into Baking Dish:** Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
4. **Prepare Breadcrumb Topping:** In a small bowl, combine the bread crumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the cheese.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the topping is golden brown.
6. **Serve:** Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use Different Soup:** Substitute the cream of mushroom soup with cream of chicken soup or cream of celery soup.
* **Add Cheese Sauce:** For an even cheesier casserole, pour a cheese sauce over the top before adding the breadcrumb topping.
* **Use Leftover Turkey:** Replace the ham with leftover cooked turkey for a post-Thanksgiving meal.
* **Add a Layer of Stuffing:** For an even heartier casserole, spread a layer of cooked stuffing in the bottom of the baking dish before adding the mashed potato mixture.
## Recipe 6: Mini Mashed Potato Quiches
These mini quiches are a perfect appetizer or brunch item. The Costco loaded mashed potatoes create a creamy and flavorful base, and you can customize the fillings to your liking.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container (approximately 3 pounds) Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes
* 1 package (14.1 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts
* 6 large eggs
* 1/2 cup milk or cream
* 1/4 cup chopped cooked bacon or ham
* 1/4 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Swiss, or Gruyere)
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Muffin Tin:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 24-cup mini muffin tin.
2. **Prepare Pie Crusts:** Unroll the pie crusts and use a 3-inch cookie cutter or a glass to cut out circles. Gently press the circles into the mini muffin cups.
3. **Prepare Filling:** In a large bowl, combine the Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes, eggs, milk or cream, cooked bacon or ham, and shredded cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
4. **Fill Pie Crusts:** Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the pie crust-lined muffin cups, filling them about 3/4 full.
5. **Bake:** Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the quiches are set and the crusts are golden brown.
6. **Serve:** Let the quiches cool for a few minutes before serving. They can be served warm or at room temperature.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Vegetables:** Add sauteed vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or onions, to the filling.
* **Use Different Cheese:** Experiment with different types of cheese, such as feta, goat cheese, or Parmesan.
* **Add Herbs:** Add chopped fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, or thyme, to the filling.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Omit the bacon or ham and add more vegetables to the filling.
## Recipe 7: Loaded Mashed Potato Pancakes
Transform those Costco loaded mashed potatoes into delicious pancakes! These are a fun and savory alternative to traditional sweet pancakes.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container (approximately 3 pounds) Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes
* 1 large egg, beaten
* 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Vegetable oil, for frying
* Sour cream or applesauce, for serving (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes, beaten egg, all-purpose flour, and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix well until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
2. **Heat Oil:** Heat a thin layer of vegetable oil in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. **Form Pancakes:** Drop spoonfuls of the mashed potato mixture onto the hot skillet, forming small pancakes. Flatten them slightly with the back of a spoon.
4. **Cook Pancakes:** Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully.
5. **Serve:** Serve immediately with sour cream or applesauce, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Cheese:** Mix shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese into the pancake batter.
* **Add Spices:** Add a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika to the pancake batter.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different fresh herbs, such as chives, parsley, or dill.
* **Serve with a Fried Egg:** Top the potato pancakes with a fried egg for a more substantial meal.
## Recipe 8: Quick Mashed Potato Pizza Crust
Yes, you read that right! Use those creamy, loaded mashed potatoes as the base for a surprisingly delicious and easy pizza crust. This is gluten-free and offers a unique flavor.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 container (approximately 3 pounds) Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes, cooled slightly
* 1 large egg, beaten
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* Your favorite pizza toppings
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat & Prep:** Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Combine Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the cooled Costco Loaded Mashed Potatoes, beaten egg, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
3. **Form the Crust:** Spread the mixture evenly onto the prepared baking sheet in a circle, about 12 inches in diameter. The crust will be thinner than a traditional pizza crust.
4. **Bake the Crust:** Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the crust is lightly golden and set.
5. **Add Toppings:** Remove the crust from the oven and add your favorite pizza toppings.
6. **Bake Again:** Return the pizza to the oven and bake for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. **Serve:** Let cool slightly before slicing and serving.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Add Garlic:** Mix minced garlic into the mashed potato mixture for a more garlicky crust.
* **Use Different Cheese:** Substitute the Parmesan cheese with Romano or Asiago cheese.
* **Pre-Cook Toppings:** Pre-cook any toppings like sausage or vegetables before adding them to the pizza to ensure they are cooked through.
* **Go Crazy with Toppings:** Load it up with your favorite classic pizza toppings or try something new and adventurous!
## The Takeaway
Costco’s new loaded mashed potatoes are much more than just a convenient side dish. They’re a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a wide variety of delicious and satisfying meals. So, grab a container (or two!) and get creative in the kitchen. These recipes are just a starting point – feel free to experiment and adapt them to your own tastes and preferences. Happy cooking!