Boil potato cubes in a large stockpot with the garlic for 20 minutes or until potatoes can be pierced easily with a fork. Drain.
Transfer the potatoes to a large bowl and mash. Stir in heavy cream, sour cream and butter.
Season with the salt and pepper.
Stir in 1 ½ cups cheese and half the package of bacon pieces.
Scoop into a 13x9 inch baking pan and sprinkle with the remaining cheese and bacon pieces.
Bake for 25-30 minutes.
Garnish with sliced green onions and extra shredded cheese before serving if desired.
Notes
Customize the Cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese to add depth of flavor. Gouda, smoked cheddar, or even a combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack and Parmesan can elevate the dish.
Add a Twist: Consider adding some chopped herbs like chives or parsley to the mashed potatoes for a fresh, aromatic touch. Additionally, mixing in some caramelized onions or roasted garlic with the mashed potatoes can introduce richer, more complex flavors.
Prep Ahead: This casserole can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated, tightly covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a convenient dish for entertaining or busy weeknights. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before baking to ensure even cooking.