Loaded Barbecue Baked Potato Casserole.

Loaded Barbecue Baked Potato Casserole

6 bacon slices
1 (22-oz.) package frozen mashed potatoes
2 cups milk
1 cup (4 oz.) shredded Monterey Jack cheese with peppers
1/2 (8-oz.) package 1/3-less-fat cream cheese, cut into cubes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
3 cups (12 oz.) shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
1 (8-oz.) container light sour cream
1 (4-oz.) can chopped green chiles, drained
3 cups shredded barbecue pork or beef
3/4 cup barbecue sauce
Garnish: chopped fresh parsley

1. Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium-high heat 8 to 10 minutes or until crisp; remove bacon, and drain on paper towels, reserving 2 Tbsp. drippings. Crumble bacon; set aside.

2. Stir together reserved bacon drippings, potatoes, next 5 ingredients, and 2 cups Cheddar cheese in a large microwave-safe bowl. Microwave at HIGH 4 minutes. Stir in sour cream and chiles until well blended.

3. Spoon potato mixture into a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with bacon and remaining 1 cup Cheddar cheese. Arrange pork evenly over cheese. Drizzle barbecue sauce evenly over pork.

4. Bake at 350° for 45 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Garnish, if desired.