Mediterranean Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole
This Mediterranean-inspired Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole is the perfect marriage of hearty comfort food and vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Imagine tender chunks of creamy baked potatoes, juicy shredded chicken breast, rich layers of melted cheddar and mozzarella, and a hint of smokiness from crispy beef — all brought together with a silky cream sauce. While the classic loaded baked potato casserole is delicious on its own, this version gets a Mediterranean touch with balanced seasonings and fresh garnish for brightness.
It’s the ultimate family-friendly dish — comforting enough for a cozy weeknight dinner and impressive enough for casual gatherings.
Time & Servings
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Ingredients
3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup cooked and crumbled beef
½ cup sour cream
½ cup heavy cream or milk
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Prepare the potatoes:
Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized chunks.
Boil them in a large pot of salted water for 8–10 minutes until just fork-tender (not mushy). Drain well.
Make the creamy seasoning mix:
In a large bowl, whisk together the sour cream, heavy cream (or milk), melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
Combine base ingredients:
Add the cooked potatoes and chicken to the bowl with the creamy mix. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Assemble the casserole:
Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top, followed by mozzarella.
Scatter crumbled beef across the surface.
Bake:
Place in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Garnish & Serve:
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.
Tips
Parboiling is key: Don’t skip the step of boiling the potatoes briefly before baking. This ensures they are tender but still hold their shape in the casserole.
Cheese balance: Combining cheddar (sharp flavor) and mozzarella (creamy melt) gives the best texture and taste.
Beef placement: Adding beef before baking infuses smoky flavor, but for ultra-crispy beef, reserve some and sprinkle it on after baking.
Freshness factor: Even though this is a hearty casserole, topping with green onions or fresh parsley helps brighten the dish.
Chicken shortcut: Use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor.
Cream swap: If you want a lighter dish, replace heavy cream with evaporated milk or Greek yogurt (for extra tang).
Variations
Mediterranean Veggie Boost: Add diced red bell peppers, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes before baking for a veggie-packed version.
Greek Twist: Replace cheddar with crumbled feta, add olives, and sprinkle with oregano before serving.
Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of red chili flakes or smoked paprika into the cream mixture.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the potatoes for a fragrant touch.
Low-Carb Option: Swap potatoes for roasted cauliflower florets for a lighter dish.
Q&A
Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding 5–10 extra minutes if cold from the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes. Prepare and bake the casserole, then let it cool completely. Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I make it without beef?
Absolutely. You can omit beef entirely or replace it with turkey beef, veggie beef, or roasted chickpeas for crunch.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes until hot.
Nutrition (per serving, approx.)
Calories: 390 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 610mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Conclusion
This Mediterranean Loaded Baked Potato Chicken Casserole delivers everything you crave in a comfort meal — creamy, cheesy potatoes, tender chicken, and a pop of freshness from herbs and onions — while still leaving room for healthy twists and creative add-ins. Whether you’re serving it as the star of a family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or bringing it to a potluck, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
By combining familiar comfort food ingredients with Mediterranean-inspired touches, you get a dish that’s both satisfying and slightly elevated.