Welcome to a cozy and delicious adventure in your kitchen with the Twice Baked Potato Casserole! This recipe takes the classic comfort of twice-baked potatoes and turns it into an easy-to-share dish. It's perfect for those who love the creamy, cheesy goodness of baked potatoes but want something that's simple to serve for a crowd.
Made with hearty potatoes, rich cheese, crispy bacon, tangy sour cream, and fresh green onions, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser. Whether it's a family dinner, a potluck, or a festive holiday meal, this dish brings everyone together around the table for a tasty treat.
Table of Contents
Why This Recipe Works
This Twice Baked Potato Casserole recipe stands out because it combines all the beloved elements of a classic comfort food into a no-fuss, easy-to-serve format. The magic lies in its simplicity and the universal appeal of its ingredients. By baking the potatoes first, you get a fluffy interior that's then mixed with creamy sour cream, melty cheese, and savory bacon, creating a dish that's both satisfying and delicious. This casserole eliminates the need for individual potato prep and offers a hassle-free way to enjoy the flavors of twice-baked potatoes without the extra work.
Moreover, what really makes this recipe a must-try is its versatility. It can be easily adapted to suit different tastes or dietary preferences. Vegetarian? Skip the bacon or use a plant-based alternative. Watching your calories? Opt for low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. The recipe also encourages creativity with toppings and mix-ins, allowing you to tailor it to your liking. Whether it's adding a spicy kick with jalapeños or a crunchy texture with breadcrumbs on top, this casserole can be your canvas. It's this combination of simplicity, taste, and adaptability that makes the Twice Baked Potato Casserole a winning dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Potatoes: The star of the casserole, providing a fluffy and hearty base. Substitute: Sweet potatoes for a sweeter twist.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds a rich, creamy texture and sharp flavor. Substitute: Gouda or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Sour Cream: Gives the dish a tangy flavor and creamy consistency. Substitute: Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
Bacon: Offers a smoky, savory crunch to the dish. Substitute: Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon bits for different dietary needs.
Green Onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color. Substitute: Chives or leek for a similar taste.
Tips
- Bake potatoes until fork-tender for the best texture.
- Shred your own cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Cook bacon until crispy for added texture.
- Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to set.
- Customize toppings according to taste preferences.
How to Serve
This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish perfect for gatherings or a family dinner. It combines all the beloved features of twice-baked potatoes but in a convenient, scoopable casserole form. For serving, consider it as a main course for a cozy family dinner, a side dish that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as part of a festive holiday spread.
- Serve alongside roasted chicken or turkey as a satisfying side.
- Top with extra sour cream, cheese, and chives for a loaded potato effect.
- Enjoy it as a stand-alone dish with a side salad for a lighter meal option.
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Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes scrubbed and dried
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 1 cup sour cream
- 8 slices of bacon cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 green onions sliced, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Optional garnishes: extra sour cream chives, additional bacon
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce potatoes with a fork and bake until tender, about 45-60 minutes. Let cool, then cut into cubes.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the cubed potatoes with half the cheese, sour cream, half the green onions, milk, butter, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the potato mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the remaining cheese and bacon.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with the remaining green onions and optional toppings. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
• Shred your own cheese for better melting and flavor.
• Cook bacon until crispy for added texture.
• Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving to set.
• Customize toppings according to taste preferences.