Description
This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a comforting and indulgent side dish made with creamy mashed potatoes blended with butter, cream cheese, and sour cream, then mixed with cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions. Baked until bubbly and broiled for a golden, cheesy crust, it’s perfect for holiday dinners, family gatherings, or whenever you crave a rich, savory potato casserole.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 6 large russet potatoes
Potato Mixture
- 4 tbsp. butter, softened, plus more for pan
- 4 oz. cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 3/4 tsp. garlic powder
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Toppings and Mix-ins
- 2 3/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 10 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 5 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat and bake potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F. Place whole russet potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes, until soft and easily pierced with a knife. Remove and let cool slightly.
- Prepare potato flesh: Slice each warm potato in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh with a spoon into a large bowl, discarding the skins.
- Mash and mix: Mash the potato flesh and add softened butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and whole milk. Stir well until the fats are melted and the mixture is creamy. Fold in 2 cups of shredded cheddar, three-quarters of the crumbled bacon, three-quarters of the sliced green onions, and garlic powder. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Assemble casserole: Butter a medium baking dish to prevent sticking. Transfer the potato mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 3/4 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top.
- Bake and broil: Bake the casserole in the oven at 400°F for about 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Then switch the oven to broil and broil for 2 to 3 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp. Remove and allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish and serve: Top the casserole with the remaining crumbled bacon and sliced green onions for added flavor and presentation. Serve warm.
Notes
- Potatoes can vary in size; adjust baking time slightly if needed.
- For extra creaminess, you can add a little more sour cream or milk.
- To make ahead, prepare the potato mixture and refrigerate before baking, then bake when ready to serve.
- Use reduced-fat sour cream or milk for a lighter dish.
- Leftover casserole reheats well in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: twice baked potatoes, potato casserole, cheesy potato bake, comfort food, bacon and cheese potatoes
