Twice Baked Potato Casserole

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If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish that everyone will love, look no further than this Twice Baked Potato Casserole.

Imagine creamy, cheesy potatoes with crispy bacon all baked into a cozy casserole.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply a delicious weeknight dinner.

It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines all the classic flavors of twice-baked potatoes into an easy-to-serve casserole format.

Plus, it feeds a crowd, which means leftovers for days!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is an absolute game-changer.

It takes all the elements of indulgent twice-baked potatoes and transforms them into a creamy, cheesy casserole.

The combination of crispy bacon, rich sour cream, and melty cheddar creates a flavor explosion that you won’t be able to resist.

And the best part? It’s incredibly simple to make! This dish offers a wonderful blend of textures and flavors while being super easy to prepare.

Whether you’re preparing for a holiday feast or just want a comforting meal for your family, this casserole is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

To make this delicious Twice Baked Potato Casserole, you will need:

• 6 pounds (2.7 kg) Russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) vegetable oil
• 12 slices thick cut bacon
• 1 stick (½ cup) (113 g) salted butter
• 1 cup (250 g) sour cream
• 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste
• Ground black pepper to taste
• 2 cups (225 g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2-3 green onions, thinly sliced

How To Make Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).

This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly and gets that nice golden top.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

Wash and peel the Russet potatoes, then cut them into quarters.

Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water.

Add a little salt to the water, which will help flavor the potatoes as they cook.

Bring the pot to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.

Once hot, add the thick-cut bacon slices.

Cook until the bacon is crispy, about 8-10 minutes.

Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on paper towels to drain the excess grease.

After it cools, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes

Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them and return them to the pot.

Add the salted butter, sour cream, whole milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the pot.

Using a potato masher, mash until smooth and creamy.

If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can mash it less.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the chopped bacon and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potatoes.

Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Transfer to Casserole Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray or a little oil.

Spoon the potato mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the casserole.

For an extra touch, you can also sprinkle a little more black pepper on top for flavor.

Step 8: Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes.

Top with thinly sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness.

Serve warm and enjoy the layers of flavor in every bite!

Expert Tips

• Make sure to not overcook the potatoes. They should be tender but not mushy, as you still want a bit of structure when mashing.
• For extra flavor, you can add in some grated Parmesan cheese along with the cheddar.
• Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your taste preferences. A little smoked paprika can add a nice touch!
• This casserole can be prepped ahead of time. Simply prepare everything and store it in the fridge, then bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Variations and Customizations

• Add steamed broccoli or spinach to the potato mixture for a healthier twist and color.
• For a spicy kick, include some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper into the mashed potatoes.
• You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or even roasted mushrooms for a vegetarian option.
• Try adding different types of cheese like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

How to Store Leftovers

Storing leftovers is simple! If you have any casserole left, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

This casserole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, just pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.

You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQ

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking point, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to a day.

Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use different types of potatoes?

While Russet potatoes are perfect for this recipe due to their creamy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes if you prefer.

Just remember that the texture may vary slightly.

Is there a way to make this casserole healthier?

You can use low-fat sour cream and milk, and substitute some or all of the butter with Greek yogurt.

Additionally, adding vegetables can boost nutrients without compromising flavor.

How do I freeze this casserole?

To freeze, let the cooked casserole cool completely, then wrap it well in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.

It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating; it may take a bit longer to heat through.

Conclusion

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a delicious dish that brings everyone together around the table.

It’s easy to prepare, incredibly tasty, and perfect for serving a crowd or just enjoying throughout the week.

Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twists, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.

So grab your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a hearty meal that warms the heart and satisfies the stomach!

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