Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

The Ultimate Comfort Food

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the rich, creamy, cheesy goodness of a Twice Baked Potato Casserole. This dish takes all the best elements of a classic twice-baked potato—fluffy mashed potatoes, savory bacon, and melted cheddar cheese—and turns it into a warm, satisfying casserole that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, preparing a holiday feast, or looking for a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, this recipe is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make – With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious casserole ready to go in the oven.
  • Crowd-Pleasing – Who doesn’t love creamy mashed potatoes mixed with bacon and cheese?
  • Great for Leftovers – This casserole reheats beautifully, making it an excellent meal prep option.
  • Customizable – Easily swap out ingredients or add extras to suit your taste.

Ingredients

To make this indulgent Twice Baked Potato Casserole, you’ll need:

  • 6 large potatoes
  • 2/3 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 4 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 pound bacon, fully cooked and crumbled
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 green onions, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot
  • Potato masher
  • Mixing bowl
  • 2-quart glass baking dish
  • Oven
  • Sharp knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you prefer a rustic texture, leave some of the potato skins on before chopping them into 2-inch chunks.

2. Boil the Potatoes

Place the potato chunks in a large pot of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.

3. Mash and Mix

Transfer the drained potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add the milk, sour cream, butter, and cream cheese while the potatoes are still warm. Mash until you reach your desired consistency—some like it smooth, while others prefer a chunkier texture.

4. Add the Flavor

Stir in 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, cooked bacon (reserve some for topping), chopped parsley, garlic powder, 1 diced green onion, salt, and pepper. Mix well until evenly combined.

5. Assemble and Bake

Scoop the potato mixture into a 2-quart glass baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese, reserved bacon, and the second diced green onion over the top.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Cool and Serve

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra green onions or parsley if desired.

Tips and Variations

Customize Your Casserole

  • Add Vegetables – Try adding sautéed mushrooms, roasted garlic, or caramelized onions for extra flavor.
  • Make It Spicy – A dash of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños will give your casserole a kick.
  • Swap the Cheese – Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or gouda for a unique twist.
  • Use Different Meats – Swap bacon for cooked sausage, ham, or shredded chicken.

Make It Ahead

  • Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge 30 minutes prior to let it come to room temperature before baking.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: This casserole freezes well! Store in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat: Warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire casserole at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs well with:

  • Grilled Steak or Chicken – The perfect side dish for a protein-packed meal.
  • Roasted Vegetables – A fresh contrast to the rich, cheesy potatoes.
  • Green Salad – A crisp, refreshing addition to balance the flavors.

For drinks, try pairing this dish with a chilled white wine like Chardonnay or a light, citrusy lager beer.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I Use Instant Potatoes?

For best flavor and texture, fresh potatoes are recommended. However, if you’re short on time, high-quality instant mashed potatoes can work in a pinch—just be sure to adjust the liquid ingredients accordingly.

How Can I Make This Healthier?

For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, opt for reduced-fat cheese, and substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon.

Can I Make This in a Slow Cooker?

Yes! After mixing the mashed potatoes, place everything in a slow cooker on LOW for 2-3 hours until heated through. Add toppings just before serving.

What’s the Best Way to Mash Potatoes?

For an ultra-creamy texture, use a potato ricer or hand mixer instead of a potato masher.

Try This Recipe Today!

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. If you try this recipe, share it with your friends and family and let us know in the comments how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes and cooking tips.

Enjoy your cheesy, bacon-packed delight!

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