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Twice-Baked Potato Casserole Recipe Easy Comforting Cheddar Bacon Bake

twice-baked potato casserole - featured image

A comforting casserole combining creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon with a crispy top, perfect for family dinners and potlucks.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 lbs / 900 g)
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ¼ cup whole milk (or almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded (for topping)
  • 2 tbsp cooked bacon bits (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Scrub the russet potatoes clean, poke each a few times with a fork to vent steam. Place in a large pot, cover with cold water by an inch, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
  2. Let potatoes cool for 5 minutes. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop the flesh into a large mixing bowl, leaving a thin shell to keep the shape.
  3. Add softened butter, sour cream, and milk to the potato flesh. Mash until creamy but still a bit textured. Stir in 1½ cups shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, green onions (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. Spoon the potato mixture back into the potato skins or directly into a casserole dish. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar cheese and 2 tbsp bacon bits evenly on top.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. For extra crunch, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
  6. Remove from oven and let sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not over-mash potatoes to avoid gluey texture. Cool potatoes before mixing with dairy to prevent graininess. Crisp bacon well but avoid burning. Avoid covering casserole with foil during baking to keep the top crispy. Leftovers reheat well in oven; avoid microwaving to preserve crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: twice-baked potato casserole, cheddar bacon bake, comfort food, easy casserole, family dinner, potluck dish