Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

Introduction

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a comforting and crowd-pleasing dish that brings together creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, it’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 2 large baking potatoes
• ½ pound lean bacon
• 1 ½ cups shredded mild Cheddar cheese (divided)
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup milk
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 teaspoon dried chives
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F and set out the butter, sour cream, and milk to bring them to room temperature.
2. Step 2: Scrub the potatoes clean, dry them well, and rub with canola oil. Place on a baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes until tender.
3. Step 3: While the potatoes bake, cook the bacon over low heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and allow to cool.
4. Step 4: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F. Peel the skins off all but two potatoes, cut into thirds, and place in a large bowl.
5. Step 5: Crumble the bacon, reserving some pieces for topping. Mash the potatoes with melted butter, sour cream, half of the cheese, dried chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
6. Step 6: Gradually add the milk while mashing until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
7. Step 7: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with the reserved bacon and the remaining shredded cheese.
8. Step 8: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to the mashed potatoes.
• Use sharp Cheddar or a cheese blend for a richer taste.
• Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Add cooked and chopped green onions directly into the mash for more onion flavor.

Storage

Store leftover casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual servings. To retain crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and bacon mixture in advance and assemble the casserole shortly before baking. Store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

What can I do if I don’t have baking potatoes?

Russet potatoes are best for this recipe because of their starchy texture, but you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes. They will yield a slightly creamier texture but still work well.