This Twice-Baked Potato Casserole is a warm and inviting comfort food that combines the rich flavors of creamy mashed potatoes, crisp bacon, and melted Cheddar cheese. The contrast between the crispy potato skins and the soft, cheesy filling makes every bite a delightful experience. Garnished with green onions, this dish looks as good as it tastes, making it perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Not only is this casserole easy to prepare, but it’s also a crowd-pleaser. The combination of bacon, cheese, and potatoes offers a classic comfort food experience that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether it’s a side dish or the main attraction, this Twice-Baked Potato Casserole is sure to impress your guests and become a go-to recipe for cozy nights at home.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 large baking potatoes
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
-
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pierce each potato a few times with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 1 hour, or until tender. Let cool slightly.
- Cook the Bacon:
- While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Prepare the Potatoes for Casserole:
- Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh into a large bowl, leaving a thin layer of potato inside the skin.
- Make the Potato Mixture:
- To the bowl with the potato flesh, add the sour cream, milk, melted butter, cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- If you want, you can return the potato skins to the baking sheet. Alternatively, you can just place the potato mixture in a baking dish. Spread the mixture evenly in the dish or skins.
- Add Toppings:
- Sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon over the top. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on as well.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
- Prepare the Potatoes:
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 8 servings
Overview of the Recipe
The Twice-Baked Potato Casserole is a delicious and hearty comfort dish that takes the idea of traditional baked potatoes and elevates it by baking them twice. First, you bake the potatoes until tender, scoop out the insides, mash them with flavorful ingredients like butter, sour cream, and milk, and then bake the mixture again to achieve a creamy, cheesy, and savory casserole.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Russet Potatoes: These are ideal for baking due to their high starch content, which makes them fluffy and light when cooked.
- Bacon: Adds a smoky, savory flavor and a crispy texture.
- Sour Cream & Milk: Contribute to the creamy texture of the casserole.
- Butter: Adds richness and enhances the overall flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: Provides a gooey, melted cheese texture and tangy flavor.
- Green Onions (optional): Offer a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- Parmesan Cheese (optional): Adds a crispy, golden topping and an extra layer of flavor.
Preparation Tips:
- Potato Baking: Ensure potatoes are fully cooked before scooping out the flesh to avoid a raw or undercooked texture in the casserole.
- Bacon: For even crispiness, cook bacon on medium heat and drain well on paper towels.
- Mixing Ingredients: Blend the potato mixture until smooth to ensure an even texture throughout the casserole.
Serving Suggestions:
- As a Side Dish: Pairs well with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
- As a Main Course: Can be served with a side of steamed or sautéed greens for a satisfying meal.
- Garnishes: Consider adding extra toppings like chopped parsley, additional cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for quicker results. If reheating from frozen, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-60 minutes, or until heated through.
Variations:
- Different Cheeses: Try using different types of cheese like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or a blend for varied flavors.
- Add-ins: Mix in cooked vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with spices such as garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper for a unique twist.
Why This Recipe Works:
- Texture: The combination of creamy mashed potatoes and crisp bacon creates a satisfying contrast. Baking the mixture a second time also allows the top layer to get slightly crispy, while the inside remains soft.
- Flavor: The bacon and cheese give the dish a rich, savory flavor that makes it incredibly satisfying. It’s the perfect balance of comfort food indulgence.
- Versatility: This recipe works as both a main dish or a side dish. You can serve it alongside meats like roast chicken, beef, or pork, or make it the star of a weeknight dinner.
Customization Tips:
- Add Vegetables: To make the dish a bit healthier, you could add veggies like steamed broccoli or spinach. This would add extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
- Use Different Cheeses: While Cheddar cheese is classic, you could try using Gruyère, mozzarella, or even pepper jack if you like a bit of spice.
- Make it Vegetarian: You can omit the bacon and replace it with vegetarian bacon or additional vegetables for a meatless version.
Best Occasions for This Recipe:
- Family Gatherings: This dish is perfect for large family meals or potlucks. It’s easy to make in big batches and is a surefire crowd-pleaser.
- Holiday Dinners: Twice-Baked Potato Casserole is often a favorite during the holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, as it’s hearty and rich enough to stand alongside other traditional dishes like turkey or ham.
Storing and Reheating:
- Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the casserole may lose some of its crispy top layer.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Each serving of this casserole has around 350 kcal. Keep in mind, this is based on the ingredients listed. The bacon and cheese contribute significantly to the calorie count, so adjusting the quantities can help if you’re looking to lower the calorie content.
Conclusion
Twice-Baked Potato Casserole with Bacon is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to please any crowd. With creamy, cheesy potatoes and crispy bacon, it’s a great choice for a side dish or even a hearty main course. Its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a favorite at family gatherings and potlucks. Enjoy the blend of crispy, creamy, and savory elements in every bite!