Twice Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate side dish that transforms simple potatoes into a decadent, cheesy masterpiece. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or family dinners, this dish combines creamy mashed potatoes with gooey melted cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. Its rich flavors and irresistible texture will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and indulgent: Every bite is a blend of smooth, buttery mashed potatoes and rich cheese.
- Family favorite: A crowd-pleaser that pairs well with almost any main dish.
- Simple preparation: Made with pantry staples and easy-to-follow steps.
- Make-ahead friendly: Perfect for busy schedules or entertaining.
Ingredients & Their Roles
- 6 medium to large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes: These starchy varieties provide a fluffy texture, ideal for mashing and baking.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds richness and a smooth, velvety flavor.
- ¾ cup sour cream: Creates tangy creaminess, balancing the dish’s flavors.
- ½ cup whole or 2% milk: Loosens the mashed potatoes for a luscious consistency.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder & ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Enhance the savory flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt & ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the potatoes' natural flavors.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Offers bold, tangy flavor that melts beautifully.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds a creamy, mild complement to the sharp cheddar.
- 8 slices bacon (cooked crispy and crumbled): Provides smoky, salty crunch in every bite.
- 4 green onions (chopped): Brightens the dish with a fresh, oniony bite.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep and Bake the Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Wash, dry, and prick the potatoes with a fork to allow steam to escape.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until fork-tender.
2. Cool and Peel
- Remove the baked potatoes and immediately plunge them into ice-cold water.
- Use your fingers to gently peel off the skins. The quick cooling process makes peeling effortless.
3. Mash and Mix
- Cut the hot potatoes into large cubes and transfer to a large mixing bowl.
- Add butter, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, ½ cup cheddar cheese, ½ cup Monterey Jack cheese, half the bacon, and half the green onions.
- Mash until the mixture is creamy but still has a slight texture.
4. Assemble the Casserole
- Spoon the potato mixture into a 2-quart baking dish coated with nonstick cooking spray.
- Sprinkle the top with the remaining cheddar, Monterey Jack, bacon, and green onions.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
Pro Tips for the Best Twice Baked Potato Casserole
- Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes yield a fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds add a creamy, buttery flavor.
- Plan ahead: Baking the potatoes in advance saves time and makes peeling easier.
- Use high-quality cheese and bacon: Freshly shredded cheese melts better, and crispy, smoky bacon enhances the flavor.
- Customize the cheese: Swap in Pepper Jack for a spicy kick or Gouda for a smoky depth.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this casserole with roast beef, grilled chicken, or baked salmon for a well-rounded meal.
- Add a fresh side like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
- For a holiday feast, serve alongside turkey, ham, or prime rib with all the trimmings.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This Twice Baked Potato Casserole combines all the flavors of a loaded baked potato into a convenient, sharable dish. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or elevating your weeknight dinners. Plus, the rich, creamy texture and cheesy topping make it absolutely irresistible.
Make this dish for your next gathering, and watch it become the most requested recipe at the table. With its ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal, it’s destined to become a new favorite!