Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Name: Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 5 pounds russet potatoes; Olive oil for rubbing; 10-12 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled, and divided; 3/4 cup salted butter, softened; 1 cup sour cream; 1 cup half-and-half or milk; 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded and divided; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper; 3 green onions, sliced

Recipe By:

Rachael

Posted:

February 19, 2025

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Twice Baked Potato Casserole is such a winner in my house! There’s something irresistibly comforting about creamy potatoes smothered in cheese and bacon, especially when it’s baked to bubbly perfection. This dish brings together all the flavors we adore in traditional twice-baked potatoes, but it’s made easier to serve and share. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just want to treat yourself and your loved ones, this casserole never disappoints. Imagine the lovely aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes—everyone will be racing to the table!

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You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this casserole. With just a few steps, you can create a side dish that feels homey and special at the same time. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking! You’ll impress everyone with your culinary skills while enjoying the process. Trust me; this Twice Baked Potato Casserole is going to become a family favorite. Let’s jump right into all the details!

What is Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice Baked Potato Casserole takes the classic twice-baked potato and transforms it into a heartwarming dish that can feed a crowd. It combines all the beloved elements—potatoes, cheese, bacon, and creamy goodness—into one easy-to-serve casserole. You simply bake the potatoes, mix in flavor-packed ingredients, then bake it again until it’s hot and gooey. This dish is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or just any occasion where comfort food is a must!

Why You’ll Love This Twice Baked Potato Casserole

There are countless reasons to love this casserole. First, it’s incredibly satisfying. The creamy, cheesy filling is paired with crispy bacon, which gives each bite a delightful crunch. Plus, it’s super versatile. You can add vegetables or switch up the cheeses based on what you have on hand.

Moreover, it’s straightforward to make. With minimal prep and hands-on time, you can focus on enjoying the company of your friends and family. Finally, this dish keeps well and reheats beautifully, making it a perfect make-ahead option. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself making it time and again!

Ingredients

To make this delicious Twice Baked Potato Casserole, you’ll need the following ingredients:

5 pounds russet potatoes
Olive oil for rubbing
10-12 slices bacon, cooked, crumbled, and divided
3/4 cup salted butter, softened
1 cup sour cream
1 cup half-and-half or milk
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded and divided
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1 1/2 teaspoons Kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
3 green onions, sliced

Having everything laid out before you starts the cooking adventure off right!

Preparing the Potatoes and Bacon

Preheat and Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, scrub the potatoes clean, and dry them thoroughly. Then, rub each potato with olive oil for a nice texture. Next, prick the potatoes several times with a fork. This helps to release steam while baking. Place them on a baking sheet and pop them into the oven for about 40 minutes. Keep an eye out; they’re ready when tender.

Cook the Bacon

While the potatoes are baking, it’s time to cook the bacon. Sizzle the bacon until crispy, then crumble it once it cools. Make sure to save about 1/4 cup of the crumbled bacon for topping the casserole later.

Creating the Casserole Mixture

Mix Ingredients

After your potatoes come out of the oven—and once they’re cool enough to handle—reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Carefully remove the skins, cut the potatoes into chunks, and place them in a large mixing bowl. Add softened butter, sour cream, half-and-half, onion powder, Kosher salt, and pepper.

Smash to Creamy Perfection

Now it’s time to get a creamy texture. You can use a potato masher or an electric mixer to smash everything together until it’s combined and smooth. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of the crumbled bacon. This mixture is where the magic happens!

Assembling and Baking the Casserole

Transfer to Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish. It’s easier to make cleanup a breeze! Pour the creamy potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly.

Add Toppings and Bake

Now for the best part—toppings! Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top along with the reserved crumbled bacon. Bake the casserole in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s hot and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell wonderful!

Garnish and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, don’t forget to garnish with sliced green onions. This adds a pop of color and a nice fresh crunch. Then, serve it up hot and let everyone dig in!

Serving Suggestions

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole pairs perfectly with grilled meats or a fresh, crisp salad. It’s an excellent choice for holiday gatherings or as a delightful addition to any potluck spread.

Tips for Success

Ensure your potatoes are thoroughly cooked for the best texture.
Feel free to use a mix of cheeses for varied flavors; a little mozzarella can add stretch!
Don’t skip the green onions; they add a freshness that balances the richness.

Variations

For a twist, add different vegetables like steamed broccoli or spinach into the mix.
If you want a lighter option, substitute bacon with turkey bacon, or go completely vegetarian by omitting the bacon altogether.

Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (although that’s a rare event!), store them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for about three days. To reheat, place them back in the oven so you maintain that creamy texture.

Pairing Ideas

Serve your casserole with a light green salad and some crusty bread for a full meal.
Complement it with a sparkling drink or iced tea for a casual gathering.

FAQs

1. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble it a day before and just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve.

2. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! Simply skip the bacon and use vegetable broth in place of the half-and-half for an equally tasty option.

3. How do I make this casserole spicier?
For a kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for heat.

4. Can I freeze Twice Baked Potato Casserole?
You can indeed freeze it, though keep in mind the texture may change slightly once thawed and reheated.

5. What can I use if I don’t have russet potatoes?
Yukon Gold potatoes work wonderfully as a creamy alternative!

Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a delightful fusion of comfort and creativity that will satisfy any crowd. Its creamy texture blends beautifully with melted cheese and crispy bacon, evoking warmth and nostalgia. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home, this simple yet rewarding recipe lets you enjoy the love of home-cooked meals, customized to your taste. Happy cooking!

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