Loaded Mashed Potato Bake

4 lb. russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
8 slices bacon, cut into 1" pieces
3/4 cup sour cream
1/3 cup butter
2 Tbs heavy cream
2 cloves garlic, minced
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Chopped chives, for garnish

Directions:

1.  Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  In a large pot, add potatoes and cover with 2 inches water.  Boil until fork tender, 15-20 minutes.  Drain and return to pot.

2.  Meanwhile, in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, 6 minutes.  Drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

3.  Mash potatoes.  Add 1 1/4 cups cheddar, most of the cooked bacon, sour cream, butter, heavy cream, and garlic.  Season generously with salt and pepper.

4.  Transfer potatoes to oven-safe skillet (or a 9 x 13" baking dish) and top with remaining cheddar and cooked bacon.

5.  Bake until cheddar is melty, 15 minutes.

6.  Garnish with chives and serve.

Serves 6-8