Twice Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, creamy, cheesy, buttery, and packed with smoky bacon and fluffy baked potatoes. This recipe takes all the flavors of a classic twice-baked potato and transforms them into an easy, family-size casserole that bakes beautifully and feeds a crowd. It’s a perfect holiday side dish, potluck favorite, or Sunday dinner addition because it’s hearty, rich, and guaranteed to impress. The texture is what makes it special: fluffy, creamy potatoes combined with melty cheddar, crispy bacon, and sour cream for extra richness. This casserole also reheats well and can be made ahead, which makes it incredibly convenient for busy days or gatherings.
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WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
• Big Crowd-Pleaser: This casserole has the same comforting flavor as stuffed potatoes but is much easier to prepare in a large batch, so it’s perfect for holidays or gatherings.
• Creamy and Cheesy Texture: Sour cream, butter, milk, and cheddar cheese blend into the potatoes to make them extra silky and flavorful, while the baked topping forms a golden crust.
• Easy Make-Ahead Option: You can fully assemble the casserole in advance and bake it later, making it an ideal stress-free dish for entertaining.
• Customizable Ingredients: You can adjust the cheese, seasoning, mix-ins, or toppings based on what your family loves, and it still turns out delicious.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Every bite delivers warm, rich potato flavor combined with smoky bacon and gooey cheddar, classic comfort with minimal effort.
INGREDIENTS
• 6 large Russet potatoes, washed
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: extra butter for topping
Recommended Tools
Mixing Bowl Set – great for all your mixing and prep work.
Silicone Spoon Set – great for stirring without scratching the pot.
Measuring Cups & Spoons – helps you measure spices and liquids accurately.
Glass Storage Containers – perfect for storing leftovers safely.
PREPARATION STEPS
STEP 1: BAKE THE POTATOES
• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Pierce potatoes with a fork, rub with oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• Bake 50–60 minutes until tender, then cool slightly.
STEP 2: SCOOP AND MIX
• Cut potatoes open and scoop the flesh into a bowl.
• Add butter, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy.
• Pour in milk gradually until fluffy.
STEP 3: ADD THE MIX-INS
• Stir in chopped bacon, green onions, and 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese.
• Mix gently so the potatoes stay fluffy.
STEP 4: ASSEMBLE THE CASSEROLE
• Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
• Top with remaining cheese and dot with extra butter if desired.
STEP 5: BAKE
• Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until hot and cheese is melted and golden.
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COOKING NOTES
• Potato Choice Matters: Russets are best because they become extra fluffy when baked. Using waxy potatoes can make the casserole dense.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir the potato mixture gently, overmixing can make it gluey instead of creamy.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash more milk until you reach the perfect fluffy texture.
• Salt Gradually: Potatoes absorb salt fast, so season little by little and taste as you go.
• Pre-Crisp the Bacon Well: Crispy bacon adds texture. If it’s too soft, it will get lost in the casserole.
VARIATIONS
• Loaded Potato Casserole: Add extra bacon, extra cheddar, and a topping of sour cream and chives for a classic loaded potato flavor profile.
• Ranch Version: Mix 2 tablespoons of ranch seasoning into the potatoes for a tangy, herb-packed twist that pairs beautifully with cheddar.
• Spicy Southwest Style: Add diced jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, and smoked paprika to introduce heat and smoky depth.
• Broccoli Cheddar Casserole: Fold in 1 ½ cups steamed chopped broccoli for a comforting and veggie-loaded option.
• Caramelized Onion Potato Casserole: Add 1 cup caramelized onions to bring deep sweetness and gourmet richness to the dish.
• Ham and Cheese: Replace bacon with diced ham for a heartier casserole that works well as a full meal.
• Three-Cheese Blend: Try mixing cheddar, mozzarella, and Gruyère to create a melty, stretchy, flavor-packed topping.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
• Pair with roasted chicken, turkey, ham, or steak for a hearty comfort meal.
• Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.
• Add toppings at the table, sour cream, chopped chives, crumbled bacon, and extra cheese, for a build-your-own loaded potato bar.
• Use leftovers as a hearty breakfast side dish paired with eggs and sausage.
• Serve in individual ramekins for an elevated holiday presentation.
TIPS
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: It melts better and makes the casserole creamier. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Bake Potatoes Instead of Boiling: Baking removes moisture, giving the casserole a fluffier texture and richer flavor.
• Let Potatoes Cool Slightly: Scooping them too hot can make them gummy.
• Don’t Skip the Butter Topping: A few pats of butter on top help create a golden, bubbling crust.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake an extra 10 minutes if cold.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze unbaked casserole and thaw overnight before baking.
• Reheating Tip: Warm leftovers in the oven instead of the microwave to keep the texture fluffy.
PREP TIME / COOKING TIME / TOTAL TIME
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60 minutes (potatoes) + 25–30 minutes (bake)
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
Approx. 260 calories – 6g protein – 10g fat – 34g carbs
FAQS
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
- Yes, this recipe is perfect for preparing in advance. Assemble the casserole completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove it from the fridge while the oven preheats and add an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.
Can I freeze Twice Baked Potato Casserole?
- Absolutely. Prepare the casserole but do not bake it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.
Why are Russet potatoes best for this recipe?
- Russet potatoes become extra fluffy when baked, which helps the casserole stay light and creamy. Waxy potatoes (like Yukon Gold or red potatoes) stay dense and won’t give the same classic “twice-baked” texture.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
- Yes. Turkey bacon works well, but crisp it thoroughly so it adds the right texture. You may also want to add a pinch of smoked paprika to replace the smoky flavor of traditional bacon.
Why is my casserole too thick or dry?
- This usually happens when the potatoes are overmixed or not enough liquid was added. Add a splash of warm milk and gently mix to loosen the mixture. Also be sure not to pack the potatoes tightly when assembling the dish.
Can I add other cheeses besides cheddar?
- Definitely. Gruyère, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, and Colby all melt well and bring extra flavor. A blend of two or three cheeses gives the casserole an even richer taste.
How do I make the top extra golden and bubbly?
- Add a few small pats of butter on top and broil the casserole for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
Twice Baked Potato Casserole is the kind of comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that belongs on every holiday table, family gathering, or cozy night at home. It combines everything people love about classic stuffed potatoes, creamy filling, melted cheese, smoky bacon, and rich buttery flavor, into one easy, baked dish that’s simple to prepare yet bold in taste. The best part is how customizable it is: you can make it richer, lighter, spicier, cheesier, or loaded with extra toppings to match your family’s preferences. Whether you’re serving a big group or just preparing a comforting dinner, this casserole delivers warm, familiar flavors that always satisfy. Save it, share it, and enjoy every creamy bite.
