This Easy Twice Baked Potato Casserole combines creamy potatoes with cheese and crispy bacon to create a warm and inviting dish. It’s perfect for sharing at any meal!
You’ll love how simple it is to whip up. Just mix everything together, bake, and enjoy! I often make extra to savor leftovers, because who can resist cheesy potatoes? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baking Potatoes: I recommend using Russet potatoes for their fluffy texture. If you prefer smaller potatoes, Yukon Gold can work too. They have a buttery flavor that is lovely in this dish.
Sour Cream: If you want a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead. It’s a great substitute that keeps the creamy texture while adding a bit more protein!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you can mix it with Monterey Jack or Gruyère for extra flavor. For a spicy kick, add pepper jack cheese!
Bacon: Turkey bacon or veggie bacon can work as a healthier option. For a vegetarian dish, you can simply omit it and increase the cheese.
Green Onions: If green onions aren’t available, you can use chives for a similar flavor. They add a nice fresh element to the casserole.
How Do You Achieve the Creamiest Casserole?
To get that dreamy creamy texture, it’s all about how you mix the ingredients. Here are some tips:
- When scooping out the potatoes, don’t take out too much. Leave some in the skins for stability and flavor!
- Mix everything in the bowl until just combined. If you over-mix, the potatoes can become gummy, which we want to avoid.
- Make sure the butter is fully softened. It helps create a better blend with the sour cream and milk.
Easy Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 large baking potatoes
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, and you’ll need around 1 hour for baking the potatoes. After that, another 20-25 minutes to bake the casserole. So, in total, it’s about 1 hour and 40 minutes to enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). First, pierce the potatoes a few times with a fork. This lets steam escape while they cook. Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for about 1 hour, or until they are tender. If you’re short on time, you can microwave them until soft, but the oven gives them a great flavor!
2. Scoop the Potatoes:
Let the baked potatoes cool for a few minutes, so they’re easier to handle. Slice each potato in half lengthwise, and carefully scoop out the potato flesh with a spoon into a large mixing bowl. Make sure to leave a thin layer of potato inside the skins to keep them sturdy.
3. Mix the Filling:
Add the sour cream, milk, softened butter, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) to the bowl with the potato. Mix everything together until it’s nice and smooth. This will be the delicious filling!
4. Fill & Top:
Now, spoon the creamy potato mixture back into the potato skins or you can spread it into a greased casserole dish if you prefer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top for that yummy cheesy goodness.
5. Bake:
Place the filled skins or casserole dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
6. Serve:
Once done, take your casserole out of the oven and let it cool for a minute before serving. Garnish with extra chopped green onions for a nice touch. Enjoy your delicious and easy twice baked potato casserole!
FAQ for Easy Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Can I Use Other Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While Russet potatoes are great for their fluffy texture, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier result. Just ensure they are large enough to be hollowed out.
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling a day in advance! Just store it in the fridge, and when you’re ready to bake, simply fill the potato skins or casserole dish and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
Can I Customize the Ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to add or swap ingredients like using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, different cheeses, or adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. The possibilities are endless!
