Twice Baked Potato Casserole

When it comes to classic comfort food, twice baked potato casserole sits at the top of the list. This dish takes all the best parts of a loaded baked potato—creamy mashed potatoes, melty cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and rich sour cream—and transforms them into an easy-to-make casserole that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, bringing a side to a potluck, or prepping a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe delivers every time.

Unlike traditional stuffed potatoes that require scooping, refilling, and re-baking, this version simplifies the process while keeping all the flavor. You get a creamy, cheesy potato base layered with green onions, crisp turkey bacon, and plenty of gooey cheese throughout. For texture and flavor balance, russet potatoes are the ideal choice, offering a fluffy interior that holds up to rich dairy and mix-ins. For those curious about the science behind the spud, Wikipedia’s baked potato entry highlights why russets work so well in recipes like this.

This cheesy twice baked potato casserole is also highly adaptable. You can prep it ahead, reheat it without losing texture, and even freeze it for future meals. It’s just as welcome on a Thanksgiving table as it is at a casual cookout. For more inspiration, check out Pinterest’s holiday side dish recipes for ideas on how to pair it with your favorite main courses. If you love the comfort of creamy mashed potatoes but crave the flavor of a fully loaded baked version, this is the side dish that does it all.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This twice baked potato casserole delivers everything you love about a loaded baked potato but with the simplicity of a one-pan dish. It’s ultra-creamy, packed with cheddar cheese, topped with crispy bacon, and finished with fresh green onions for balance. Each spoonful has that familiar savory, buttery bite with just the right amount of tang from the sour cream and richness from cream cheese. The result is indulgent and comforting without being overly heavy.

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. It works beautifully for holiday dinners, potlucks, or a regular family meal. You can prep it in advance, store it in the fridge, and just pop it into the oven when you’re ready. It’s also a great way to use up leftover baked potatoes or add variety to your weekly meal rotation. If you’re building a menu, consider pairing this casserole with roasted meats or grilled vegetables. For a full comfort-food spread, explore Pinterest’s cheesy comfort food casseroles for even more ideas.

Beyond the flavor and texture, this dish is budget-friendly and made from ingredients you probably already have on hand. Potatoes, butter, milk, cheese, and bacon are pantry and fridge staples that come together in an impressive, oven-baked presentation. And if you’re short on time or looking for something kid-friendly, this casserole checks all the boxes. It’s a guaranteed hit at gatherings and the type of dish people will ask you to bring again. Whether it’s your first time making it or your hundredth, this loaded potato casserole is a keeper.

Ingredient Breakdown & Tips

This cheesy twice baked potato casserole is loaded with flavor thanks to a smart mix of pantry and fridge staples. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the rich, comforting texture and bold flavor this dish is known for. Here’s what you’ll need and how to make substitutions or upgrades based on your preferences.

Russet Potatoes (6 medium):
Russet potatoes are the ideal base for this casserole because they bake up fluffy and mash easily without turning gummy. Their higher starch content helps absorb the butter, sour cream, and cream cheese for a rich, smooth texture. For an in-depth look at their culinary use, see Wikipedia’s baked potato article.

Sour Cream (1 cup):
Adds tang and creaminess to the mashed potatoes. It lightens the texture and provides a mild zing that balances the heavier dairy components. If you want a higher protein version, full-fat Greek yogurt works as a substitute.

Cream Cheese (4 oz, softened):
Provides a dense, silky base that enhances the richness. Be sure it’s softened so it blends smoothly. For a more intense flavor, try swapping with garlic-herb cream cheese or add a tablespoon of ranch seasoning for extra zing.

Milk (½ cup):
Helps loosen the mashed potatoes without making them watery. Whole milk is ideal, but you can use 2%, half-and-half, or even evaporated milk in a pinch. For dairy-free options, try oat or almond milk.

Unsalted Butter (4 tablespoons, melted):
Boosts flavor and adds silkiness. Using melted butter ensures it distributes evenly throughout the potatoes.

Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon):
Delivers subtle background flavor without overpowering the dish. You can replace it with roasted garlic for a deeper, sweeter profile.

Salt and Black Pepper (to taste):
Always season generously—potatoes absorb a lot of salt. Taste your mash before baking to ensure balance.

Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1½ cups total):
Use sharp cheddar for the boldest flavor. Fold part into the mash and sprinkle the rest on top before baking for that signature cheesy finish. You can mix in Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or mozzarella for variety. Learn more about cheddar cheese to pick the right kind for your flavor preference.

Turkey Bacon (6 slices, cooked and crumbled):
Adds smoky flavor and crunch without the heaviness of traditional pork bacon. For a more classic approach, swap in pork bacon, pancetta, or even vegan bacon bits. Check Wikipedia’s bacon page for regional bacon variations.

Green Onions (2, sliced):
Bring a mild onion flavor and fresh color contrast. You can substitute with chives for a more subtle bite. Learn about the difference on Wikipedia’s green onion entry.

For creative mix-ins or topping inspiration, explore Pinterest’s potato casserole recipes where you’ll find everything from loaded ranch casseroles to Tex-Mex twists.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Casserole

Making this twice baked potato casserole is easy with a little planning and a few key techniques. Follow these steps to ensure a creamy, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing result every time.

Bake the Potatoes
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash and scrub 6 russet potatoes thoroughly, then pierce each with a fork. Place directly on the oven rack and bake for about 1 hour or until they are fork-tender. Allow them to cool slightly so they’re easier to handle.

Peel and Mash
Once the potatoes are cool enough, peel off the skins and place the flesh in a large mixing bowl. Mash using a hand masher or electric mixer until smooth. Avoid overmixing to prevent a gluey texture.

Add the Creamy Elements
To the mashed potatoes, add:

• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup milk
• 4 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste
  Mix until creamy and fully combined.

Fold in the Good Stuff
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled turkey bacon, and half of the sliced green onions. These ingredients give the casserole its classic loaded potato flavor.

Assemble the Casserole
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the potato mixture evenly. Top with the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and the rest of the turkey bacon. This gives the dish a bubbly, golden top layer once baked.

Bake and Garnish
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and garnish with the remaining green onions before serving. If you’re preparing this dish ahead, simply cover and refrigerate it before the final bake.

For more visual references or casserole ideas, check out Pinterest’s casserole meal prep ideas, which include prep tips and reheating options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding these common missteps will ensure your cheesy potato casserole turns out creamy and flavorful every time:

• Overmixing mashed potatoes: This can create a gummy or gluey texture. Mix just until combined.
• Using waxy potatoes: Yukon gold or red potatoes don’t mash as well as russets and can affect texture.
• Not seasoning enough: Potatoes soak up salt, so don’t be afraid to taste and adjust before baking.
• Adding cold ingredients: Make sure cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature to mix in smoothly.
• Skipping the final bake: The second bake is crucial—it melts the cheese topping and brings the flavors together.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

This loaded twice baked potato casserole is endlessly customizable. Try these add-ins and variations to make it your own:

• Ranch Version: Stir in a tablespoon of dry ranch seasoning for added tang.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of chipotle powder to the mash.
• Extra Veggies: Fold in steamed broccoli, roasted garlic, or caramelized onions.
• Meat Swap: Use crumbled sausage, chopped ham, or pancetta in place of bacon.
• Cheese Mix: Combine cheddar with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella for more depth.

Looking for more cheesy twists? Browse Pinterest’s cheesy comfort food casseroles for creative inspiration.

What to Serve with Twice Baked Potato Casserole

This creamy, cheesy casserole is rich and filling, making it a versatile side for all kinds of meals. Here are some pairing ideas:

• With Roasted or Grilled Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, pork chops, or prime rib.
• Holiday Favorites: Perfect next to glazed ham, roast turkey, or herb-crusted beef tenderloin.
• With Light Sides: Pair with a simple green salad, roasted asparagus, or steamed green beans to balance the richness.
• With Crusty Bread: Use a slice of sourdough or garlic bread to scoop up every bite.
• Sauce Options: Add a drizzle of sour cream, chive oil, or a spoonful of ranch dressing on top.

For holiday menu ideas, check out Pinterest’s Thanksgiving recipe ideas to see how others are plating and pairing similar casseroles.

Storing, Reheating, and Freezing Tips

This casserole stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or holiday leftovers.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in the oven at 350°F until hot.
• Microwave Reheat: Warm individual portions on medium heat, covered with a damp paper towel for moisture retention.
• Freezing (Unbaked): Assemble fully but do not bake. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
• Freezing (Baked): Cool completely, portion into containers, and freeze. Reheat in the oven for best texture.
• Meal Prep Tip: Portion into single servings in meal prep containers for ready-to-go weekday lunches.

For more tips on storage and freezer prep, explore Pinterest’s casserole meal prep ideas.

Nutrition & Serving Info

Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown for one serving (based on 8 servings per casserole):

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2g

To make this recipe lighter, try using low-fat sour cream, reduced-fat cheese, or swapping cream cheese with Greek yogurt. For a smaller portion size, divide the casserole into 10–12 servings.

This recipe is naturally gluten-free if all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.

FAQs

Why is it called twice baked potato casserole?
The name comes from the technique of baking russet potatoes once to cook them through, then baking them a second time after mashing and mixing with flavorful ingredients. It’s a simplified, casserole-style version of traditional twice baked potatoes, which are typically made by scooping out baked potato halves and refilling them.

Can I use red or Yukon gold potatoes instead of russet?
You can, but russet potatoes are preferred because of their fluffy, starchy texture. Yukon golds are waxier and result in a denser mash. If using them, avoid overmixing and reduce the milk slightly to keep the texture smooth.

Can you make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the full dish up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake it fresh before serving. You can also freeze it unbaked for longer storage.

What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar offers the boldest flavor and melts smoothly. For a gourmet upgrade, try a blend of cheddar, Gruyère, and Monterey Jack. Learn more about cheddar varieties on Wikipedia.

Is this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your bacon, cheese, and seasonings to ensure they’re certified GF if needed.

How do I make it vegetarian?
Simply omit the turkey bacon or use vegetarian bacon or a plant-based protein like tempeh. Add sautéed mushrooms or caramelized onions for extra savory depth.

How do I prevent my mashed potatoes from being gluey?
Avoid overmixing, especially if using a hand or stand mixer. Mix only until combined and use warm ingredients to help everything blend more easily.

Can I freeze cheesy potato casserole?
Yes. It freezes well both before and after baking. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly in foil and reheated gently to preserve the creamy texture.

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