The Ultimate Twice Baked Potato Casserole: Creamy, Cheesy, and Loaded with Flavor
This ultimate twice baked potato casserole recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, transforming classic loaded baked potatoes into an effortlessly elegant and incredibly satisfying family-style side dish. Imagine fluffy, creamy mashed potatoes, generously studded with crispy crumbled bacon, bright green onions, and an abundance of melty cheese. It’s not just a side; it’s a culinary experience that delivers on every promise of rich, comforting flavor. Perfect for any gathering, from weeknight dinners to festive holiday feasts, this casserole is designed to impress and delight with its irresistible combination of textures and tastes.
Why This Twice Baked Potato Casserole Is a Must-Try
Our twice baked potato casserole takes all the beloved elements of individual twice baked potatoes and cleverly reinvents them into a convenient, family-sized masterpiece. No more scooping out individual potato shells; this recipe brings the rich, flavorful filling to the forefront in a bake-and-serve format. Picture perfectly mashed potatoes, made luxuriously creamy with the addition of softened cream cheese, tangy sour cream, and whole milk. These potatoes are then folded with generous amounts of sharp cheddar cheese, savory crumbled bacon, and a hint of garlic, creating a depth of flavor that is truly unparalleled. The consistency is exceptionally rich and smooth, with delightful pockets of cheese and bacon throughout, making every bite an indulgence.
This casserole is an absolute game-changer for entertaining, especially during the busy holiday season, or for contributing to a potluck where you want your dish to truly shine. While there are countless potato side dishes out there vying for attention, this twice baked potato casserole consistently stands out. Its comforting appeal and familiar flavors, combined with an elevated presentation, make it an instant favorite. It’s an ideal choice when you need a hearty, satisfying side that feels special yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. Trust us when we say this dish will disappear quickly from any table!
Essential Ingredients for Your Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Crafting this incredible potato casserole requires a blend of staple ingredients that come together to create its signature creamy, savory profile. From the foundational potatoes to the rich dairy and flavorful mix-ins, each component plays a vital role. For a complete list of all precise measurements and detailed instructions, refer to the printable recipe card located at the conclusion of this post.
Ingredient Information and Smart Substitution Suggestions
Understanding the role of each ingredient and knowing how to make smart substitutions can elevate your cooking experience and ensure a perfect outcome every time. Here’s a breakdown:
POTATOES – Just like with traditional twice baked potatoes, we recommend starting with russet potatoes. These starchy potatoes are ideal because they bake up light and fluffy, making them incredibly easy to mash into a smooth, creamy consistency. Their high starch content absorbs the dairy and seasonings beautifully, creating the perfect base for our casserole. If russets aren’t available, other starchy varieties like Idaho potatoes or even Yukon gold potatoes will also work wonderfully. Yukon golds offer a slightly creamier texture and a naturally buttery flavor, which can be a delicious variation.
CHEESE – The cheese is central to the rich, gooey texture and savory flavor of this casserole. For optimal blending and a smooth texture, ensure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before you begin incorporating them into the potatoes. This simple step prevents lumps and ensures all ingredients combine seamlessly. We’ve used sharp cheddar cheese for its classic tangy and robust flavor, which pairs perfectly with bacon. However, feel free to get creative with your cheese choices! A delightful mixture of shredded mozzarella and cheddar can add a wonderful stretch and milder flavor, while Monterey Jack offers a lovely melt and creamy texture. You could also experiment with a smoky gouda or even a touch of Parmesan for added depth. Always shred your own cheese from a block if possible, as pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that can affect melt and texture.
DAIRY ADDITIONS – For the absolute richest and most decadent consistency, we highly recommend using full-fat sour cream and whole milk. The higher fat content in these dairy products contributes significantly to the casserole’s luxurious creaminess and depth of flavor. If you’re looking to lighten the dish slightly, you can opt for light sour cream and 2% milk, but be aware that this may result in a slightly less rich texture. Do not, however, use skim milk or fat-free sour cream as the flavor and consistency will be noticeably different.
BACON – Crispy, savory bacon is a non-negotiable element of any “loaded” potato dish. You’ll want to cook your bacon until it’s perfectly crisp, then crumble it into small pieces. While pre-cooked bacon bits can be a time-saver, cooking fresh bacon yourself will provide superior flavor and texture. Feel free to use thick-cut bacon for more substantial pieces, or a leaner cut if preferred.
SEASONINGS – Garlic powder and ground black pepper are our chosen spices, offering a foundational savory profile. Don’t be shy about adjusting these to your taste. A pinch of onion powder can enhance the savory notes, and a dash of cayenne pepper could introduce a subtle warmth if you enjoy a little kick. Salt content from the bacon and salted butter should be enough, but always taste and adjust before baking.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Twice Baked Potato Casserole
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are provided to help you visualize each stage of making this delicious recipe. For those who prefer a concise overview, you can easily Jump to Recipe to access the printable version, complete with precise measurements and comprehensive instructions at the bottom of this page.
- Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your potatoes will bake evenly and thoroughly.
- Thoroughly wash your russet potatoes, removing any dirt. Using a fork, carefully poke several holes into each potato. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing them from bursting. Place the prepared potatoes directly onto a baking sheet and bake for approximately 60-75 minutes, or until they are tender enough to be easily pierced with a fork. For an alternative cooking method, you can also boil the potatoes until tender, though baking often yields a fluffier texture.
- Once the baked potatoes are cool enough to handle, but still warm (this makes them easier to mash), carefully cut each potato in half lengthwise. Scoop out the soft, cooked potato flesh and transfer it into a large mixing bowl. There’s no need to preserve the skins for this casserole recipe, as we’re focusing on the creamy interior. After scooping, reduce your oven heat to 375°F (190°C).
- To the scooped potato flesh, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, whole milk, softened salted butter, garlic powder, and ground pepper. Using a potato masher, or for an extra smooth consistency, a hand mixer, thoroughly combine all the ingredients until well mixed and creamy. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
- Now it’s time to incorporate the delicious mix-ins! Gently fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, three-quarters of the crispy bacon bits, and half of the sliced green onions. Make sure to reserve the remaining cheese, bacon, and green onions; these will be used later as a beautiful and flavorful topping and garnish.
- Prepare a 9×13 casserole dish by lightly spraying it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Evenly spread the potato mixture into the prepared dish. Once the mixture is spread, generously top it with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese. This layer of cheese will melt into a golden, bubbly crust.
- Place the casserole in your preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes. The casserole is ready when the cheese on top is beautifully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. For an extra crispy, golden-brown topping, you can switch your oven to the broil setting for a couple of minutes towards the end of baking, watching it very carefully to prevent burning.
- Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before garnishing generously with the remaining crispy bacon bits and freshly sliced green onions. Serve warm and watch it disappear!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Success
Absolutely! This casserole is an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for simplifying meal prep for holidays or large gatherings. You can fully assemble the casserole a day in advance. Once assembled in its baking dish, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or cover it with an air-tight lid and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 20-25 minutes. This step is crucial, especially if you’re using a glass baking dish, as it helps prevent thermal shock when moving from cold to a hot oven, reducing the risk of the dish cracking. Then, proceed with baking as directed.
Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers. To freeze, ensure the casserole is fully baked and completely cooled after baking. Once cool, wrap the entire casserole (or individual portions) several times in plastic wrap, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn. Follow this with a layer of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through and bubbly, usually for 20-30 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
Storing leftovers properly ensures you can enjoy this delicious casserole for days to come. Transfer any remaining casserole into an air-tight container. Keep it stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can either warm individual portions in the microwave until hot, or for a crispier top, reheat the entire dish (or larger portions) in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.
Achieving that ultimate creamy texture is key. First, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Idaho for their light and fluffy consistency when cooked. Second, make sure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature – this makes them blend smoothly without lumps. Third, avoid overmixing the potatoes once dairy is added, as this can break down the starch and make them gummy. Mash just until smooth, then gently fold in your other ingredients.
Absolutely! While the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can certainly customize it. Steamed broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or even finely diced bell peppers could be interesting additions. Just make sure any added vegetables are cooked until tender before folding them into the potato mixture to avoid excess moisture and ensure they integrate well with the texture of the casserole.
Elevate Your Meal: Delicious Serving Suggestions
This twice baked potato casserole is incredibly versatile and serves as a magnificent side dish that complements an extensive range of main courses. Its rich and savory profile makes it an ideal companion for various proteins and meals. Imagine pairing a generous scoop of this creamy casserole with a perfectly grilled steak, a succulent roasted chicken, a hearty meatloaf, or tender pork medallions. The possibilities are truly endless, as it can be served alongside virtually anything you would typically enjoy with traditional mashed potatoes, but with an added layer of flavor and texture that elevates the entire meal.
We particularly adore bringing this impressive dish to potlucks, holiday gatherings, or family dinners where it always garners rave reviews. Its inviting aroma and golden-brown, cheesy top make it an immediate focal point on any buffet table. In fact, it’s so popular, you’ll find it doesn’t last long! For the ultimate presentation and flavor boost, be sure to garnish your warm casserole generously with fresh, thinly sliced green onions and extra crumbled bacon right before serving. The vibrant green adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh bite, while the additional bacon provides an irresistible salty crunch. Prepare for compliments – and requests for the recipe!
Discover More Irresistible Potato Recipes
If you’re a fan of comforting and versatile potato dishes, you’ve come to the right place! Potatoes are a staple for a reason, offering endless possibilities for delicious meals and sides. From creamy mashes to cheesy bakes, there’s a potato recipe for every occasion. Explore some of our other cherished potato creations that are sure to become new family favorites:
- Classic Funeral Potatoes: A beloved, cheesy, and creamy potato casserole perfect for potlucks and comfort food cravings.
- Luxurious Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Simple yet elegant, these mashed potatoes are infused with rich garlic flavor.
- Decadent Bacon Three Cheese Potatoes: An indulgent dish featuring multiple cheeses and crispy bacon, baked to perfection.
- Hearty Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: Another fantastic casserole option packed with all your favorite loaded potato toppings.
I absolutely love to spend time in the kitchen, experimenting with new flavors and perfecting classic recipes. My greatest joy comes from sharing these culinary adventures and my tried-and-true kitchen experiences with all of you! Keeping up with new recipes can be a challenge, which is why I’ve made it simple: I offer a convenient newsletter delivered straight to your inbox every time a new recipe is posted. Simply subscribe today and start receiving your free daily recipes to inspire your next meal!
Twice Baked Potato Casserole
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 5 pounds russet potatoes 8-10 potatoes
- 4 ounces cream cheese softened at room temperature
- 1 cup sour cream full fat
- 1 cup whole milk
- ¼ cup salted butter softened
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon ground pepper
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 12 slices bacon cooked and crumbled, divided
- 6 green onions sliced, divided
Things You’ll Need
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Baking sheet
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Large mixing bowl
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Potato Masher or hand mixer
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13×9 baking dish
Before You Begin
- Just like your typical twice baked potato, we’ll be using russet potatoes. Any starchy variety such as Idaho or even Yukon gold will work here, ensuring a light and fluffy mash.
- To achieve the smoothest, creamiest texture, make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before incorporating them. This crucial step ensures they blend seamlessly into the potatoes without any lumps.
- While we used cheddar cheese for its classic sharp flavor, don’t hesitate to customize! A delicious blend of mozzarella and cheddar can offer a milder, stretchier result, or you can opt for your personal favorite cheese combination to match your taste.
- For the absolute richest and most decadent consistency, we strongly recommend using full-fat sour cream and whole milk. Their higher fat content contributes significantly to the luxurious mouthfeel and deep flavor of the casserole.
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400F.
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Wash potatoes and poke holes into each with a fork. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 60-75 minutes. A fork should be able to easily pierce through when cooked. You can boil them if preferred.
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Once cool enough to touch (but still warm) cut the potatoes in half lengthwise, spoon out the inside (no need to keep the skins), and add them to a large mixing bowl. Reduce the oven heat to 375F.
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Add in cream cheese, sour cream, milk, salted butter, garlic powder and ground pepper, then mix well (note: you can do this by hand with a potato masher or with a hand-mixer).
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Mix in half of the cheddar cheese, ¾ of the bacon bits, and half of the green onions, reserving the rest for topping and garnish.
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Lightly spray a 9×13 casserole dish and add your mixture in, then top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
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Bake at 375F for about 20-25 minutes, the cheese should be melted. If desired, you can change your oven to broil for a couple of minutes to make the top golden.
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Garnish with the remaining bacon and green onions and serve warm.
Expert Tips & FAQs
- Make Ahead – You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it wrapped with plastic wrap or an air-tight lid in the refrigerator. Allow the dish to rest at room temperature for around 20-25 minutes before baking in the oven (especially if you are using a glass dish) to ensure even heating and prevent cracking.
- Storing Leftovers – Store any leftover twice baked potato casserole in an air-tight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in a microwave until warmed through, or for a crispier top, reheat in a 350F oven until hot.
- Freezing for Later – This casserole is freezer-friendly! Bake and cool the casserole completely first. Wrap it tightly several times in plastic wrap, then add a final layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. To serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed for leftovers.
- Achieving Creaminess – For the ultimate creamy texture, ensure your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature. Use a potato masher or a hand mixer, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the potatoes gummy.
- Flavor Enhancements – Don’t shy away from adding extra flavor! A pinch of onion powder can enhance the savory notes, or a dash of smoked paprika can add a subtle depth. For a bit of heat, mix in some finely chopped jalapeños with the bacon.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.