Mashed Potatoes with Bacon and Cheddar

Description
Reminiscent of twice baked potatoes, this take on mashed potatoes includes bacon and cheddar.

Ingredients
5 lb russet potatoes
10 sli bacon
8 oz cream cheese
1⁄2 c unsalted butter, melted
1 c sour cream
1⁄4 c chives, minced
2 1⁄2 c cheddar cheese, grated
2 t kosher salt
1⁄2 t pepper
Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Peel potatoes, and cut into 1-inch chunks. Place in a large saucepan, and add enough cold water to cover by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, and reduce to a simmer. Cook until tender and easily pierced with a paring knife, about 20 minutes. Transfer to a colander to drain; return to pan, cover, and set aside.

2. Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add bacon, and cook until crisp and browned, turning once. Transfer to paper towels to drain; let cool, and crumble into pieces.

3. Using a fork, mash the potatoes in pan until light and fluffy. Add the cream cheese, butter, and sour cream, and stir until combined and smooth. Add the onion and any onion juice, chives, 2 cups cheese, half the bacon, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

4. Transfer to a buttered 3-quart baking dish. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Bake until top is slightly golden and potatoes are heated through, about 30 minutes. Remove from oven; garnish with remaining bacon. Serve immediately.