If there’s one dish that instantly feels like a warm hug, it has to be this Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe. Imagine the creamy, buttery mashed potatoes combined with cheesy, smoky bacon goodness, all baked to golden perfection in a hearty casserole. This dish takes the comforting charm of classic twice baked potatoes and makes it even easier to share with family and friends. Whether it’s for a holiday feast, a weeknight dinner, or a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution, this recipe brings all the rich flavors and satisfying textures you crave in a way that’s totally irresistible.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and salty flavors. Each ingredient plays a vital role in delivering the ultimate texture and mouthwatering taste that makes this casserole a standout dish.
- 6 large potatoes: The starchy base that becomes fluffy mashed potato magic when cooked just right.
- 2/3 cup sour cream: Adds a smooth tang and extra creaminess to the mash.
- 1/2 cup milk or cream: Helps achieve a luscious, silky consistency for the potatoes.
- 1/4 cup butter: Brings richness and a velvety mouthfeel that comforts every bite.
- 4 ounces cream cheese: Gives a subtle tang and enhances the creamy texture.
- 1 pound bacon (fully cooked and crumbled): Infuses the entire dish with smoky, savory crunch.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Melts into a gooey, golden cheese layer that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley: Adds a hint of freshness and color contrast.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a warm depth of flavor without overpowering the potatoes.
- 2 green onions (diced): Provide subtle sharpness and a lovely pop of green on top.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s ready for baking the casserole after assembling. This step ensures the baking dish heats evenly, giving your potatoes that perfect golden finish.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Next, peel your potatoes if you prefer a smoother casserole or leave some skin on for extra texture. Cut them into 2-inch chunks for even cooking, then boil them in a large pot of water until fork-tender. This foundation is critical to getting fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes that blend beautifully with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Mash with Creamy Goodness
Drain the potatoes well and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add the milk or cream, sour cream, butter, and cream cheese. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy, adjusting the consistency to your liking. This mixture is the heart of your casserole’s rich and velvety texture.
Step 4: Mix in Flavorful Ingredients
Stir in the cooked, crumbled bacon (reserve some for topping), 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, garlic powder, one of the diced green onions, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mixing these in ensures each bite bursts with balanced layers of flavor, from smoky to cheesy to slightly herbal.
Step 5: Assemble in a Baking Dish
Scoop your potato mixture into a 2-quart glass baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the reserved bacon, remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, and the last diced green onion on top for extra crunch, cheesy goodness, and a beautiful presentation.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes. Look for bubbling edges and melted cheese that’s slightly golden. This step not only melds the flavors but creates that signature crispy, cheesy topping everyone loves about the Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Once out of the oven, let your casserole cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps everything set up perfectly so you can scoop beautiful portions onto your plate without losing any cheesy goodness.
How to Serve Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes elevate the dish even more. Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or snip some fresh chives for a bright green pop. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a few crispy bacon pieces on top for added texture and flavor bursts right at the table.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness. Steamed green veggies like broccoli or asparagus add color and nutrition. For a hearty meal, try it alongside roasted chicken, grilled steak, or your favorite protein to complete the comfort food experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this dish into an eye-catching centerpiece by serving it in individual ramekins for personalized portions. For a festive occasion, top it with a colorful sprinkle of paprika or smoked paprika. You could even experiment by adding mix-ins like caramelized onions or diced jalapeños into the potato mixture for a flavorful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days while maintaining its creamy texture and vibrant flavors, perfect for an easy reheated meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully! Cool it completely, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the texture creamy and delicious.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps keep the cheese melty and creates a slightly crispy top layer again. Microwaving works too, but the oven method gives the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and pair wonderfully with the bacon and cheese, creating a delightful twist on this Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe.
Is it necessary to use cream cheese in the recipe?
Cream cheese is optional but highly recommended as it adds richness and a subtle tanginess that elevates the overall flavor and texture.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and add extra cheese or sautéed mushrooms for savory depth. You can also use vegetarian bacon alternatives.
What type of potatoes work best for this casserole?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal because they become fluffy when mashed, giving the casserole its creamy consistency.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I add heat?
This Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe is mild by default, but you can easily add heat by mixing in diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that comforts and delights every time you make it. Simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and incredible flavor make it a fantastic choice for any occasion. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find it becoming a new family favorite that everyone looks forward to on your dinner table.
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Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Creamy mashed potatoes are mixed with sour cream, cream cheese, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly. Topped with green onions and fresh parsley, it’s a rich and hearty side that satisfies every time.
Ingredients
Potatoes & Dairy
- 6 large potatoes
- 2/3 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk or cream
- 1/4 cup butter
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
Additional Flavorings
- 1 pound bacon (fully cooked and crumbled)
- 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 green onions (diced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Potatoes: Peel (or partially peel) and cut potatoes into 2-inch chunks. Boil them in a large pot of water over high heat until fork-tender.
- Mash Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add milk or cream, sour cream, butter, and cream cheese, then mash until smooth and well combined.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in cooked crumbled bacon (reserve some for topping), 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, one diced green onion, salt, and pepper until evenly mixed.
- Prepare Casserole: Spoon the potato mixture into a 2-quart glass baking dish. Top with reserved bacon, remaining 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, and the last diced green onion.
- Bake: Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot throughout and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving to allow the casserole to set and flavors to meld.
Notes
- You can leave some of the potato skins on for added texture and nutrients.
- Use full-fat dairy for a richer casserole or substitute low-fat alternatives for a lighter dish.
- Fully cooked bacon can be baked, pan-fried, or microwaved ahead of time for convenience.
- Fresh parsley adds brightness; feel free to substitute with chives or green onion greens.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika.
- This casserole can be prepared a day in advance and reheated in the oven.
