Cheesy Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that combines all the savory goodness of twice baked potatoes without the fuss, then this Twice Baked Potato Casserole is exactly what you need. This recipe takes the classic flavors of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, tangy sour cream, and fresh green onions and transforms them into a rich and comforting casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.

I stumbled upon the idea of turning traditional twice baked potatoes into a casserole one holiday season, and it was a game-changer. No more scooping out potato halves and trying to refill them without making a mess—the casserole method is so much simpler and just as delicious. Whether you’re serving this up for a special holiday meal or just a cozy weeknight dinner, this Twice Baked Potato Casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.

Quick Benefits

• Time-saving: Eliminates the labor-intensive process of preparing individual twice baked potatoes
• Make-ahead convenience: Can be prepared a day ahead, allowing for stress-free entertaining
• Versatile: Works well as a side for holiday meals or as a main course for lighter dinners
• Customizable: Easily adaptable with various mix-ins like cream cheese, ranch seasoning, or different cheeses for personal preferences

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe Recipe

• Reasons why you will love this Twice Baked Potato Casserole:
• All the flavors of classic twice baked potatoes without the fuss of individual potato halves.
• Perfect for feeding a crowd during holiday meals without constant attention.
• Approved by picky eaters; it’s a hit even with traditional dish lovers.
• Can be prepared ahead of time, reducing stress on the day of serving.
• The addition of mayonnaise adds richness and creaminess without overpowering the dish.
• Sharp cheddar cheese stands out in the dish, complementing the other flavors perfectly.
• Versatile – works well with different types of potatoes and pairs with various main dishes.
• Flipping the potatoes while baking ensures even cooking and perfect texture.
• Great as a side dish for holiday meals or as a main course for a lighter dinner.
• Leftovers taste just as good, if not better, making it a great make-ahead dish.
• Offers customization with additional ingredients like cream cheese, broccoli, or jalapeños.
• Freezes well for up to 3 months, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Reheats beautifully, maintaining its texture and flavors even after refrigeration.
• Making it ahead of time enhances the flavors, making it a practical dish for entertaining.
• A comforting and satisfying dish that impresses guests but is actually straightforward to make.
• The combination of crispy bacon, sharp cheese, and tangy sour cream creates a delightful flavor profile.
• A versatile recipe that suits both formal dinners and casual meals, making it a go-to dish for any occasion.

Ingredients for Cheesy Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

For Baking the Potatoes

• 1 tablespoon kosher salt or sea salt
• 8 medium potatoes, scrubbed and dried
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Casserole

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/2 pound bacon, cooked and chopped
• 6 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3/4 cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 green onions, sliced

For the Topping

• 2 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/4 pound bacon, cooked and chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced

How to Make Cheesy Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Get the Oven Ready

Preheat the oven to 400°F.

Step 2: Prep and Bake the Potatoes

Rub potatoes with olive oil, sprinkle with kosher salt, place on a baking sheet, and bake for 45-60 minutes. Flip halfway through baking. Remove from oven when tender, let cool for 15 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9-inch square or 9×13 inch baking dish and set it aside.

Step 4: Cut Up the Potatoes

After the potatoes have cooled, chop them into bite-sized pieces and place them in a large bowl. It’s okay if some pieces break apart.

Step 5: Mix in the Creamy Base

Mix the mayonnaise and sour cream with the potatoes until evenly coated.

Step 6: Add the Good Stuff

Gently mix in the cheese, bacon, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 7: Transfer and Top

Transfer the potato mixture to the baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle cheese and bacon on top.

Step 8: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden brown.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with sliced green onions, and serve hot.

Storage Tips

Once the Twice Baked Potato Casserole is made, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store the leftovers in a covered container or with the baking dish tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or foil to maintain freshness. When reheating, you can either warm individual portions in the microwave for a minute or two until heated through, or reheat the entire casserole in a 350-degree oven covered with foil for about 20 minutes. While the texture holds up well to refrigeration and reheating, the potato skins may soften slightly after a day or two in the fridge.

If you wish to freeze the casserole, it can be frozen before or after baking for up to 3 months. Ensure it is wrapped securely in a couple of layers of plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw the frozen casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or baking. If you opt to freeze it unbaked, assemble the casserole without the final cheese and bacon topping, and add those fresh right before baking for the best presentation and taste. Making the casserole ahead of time is a convenient approach for entertaining, allowing you to prepare it the day before, refrigerate it, and then bake it the next day with minor adjustments to the baking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

For the Twice Baked Potato Casserole recipe, there are a few ingredient substitutions you can consider. If you don’t have mayonnaise on hand or prefer not to use it, you can replace it with additional sour cream for a slightly different texture. However, keep in mind that the richness and binding effect may not be the same without the mayonnaise.

When it comes to the cheese, if you prefer a different type of cheese or want to experiment with flavors, you can swap out the sharp cheddar for another cheese variety. Consider using pepper jack for a spicy kick, Gouda for a creamy twist, or Swiss for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that the cheese choice will alter the overall taste profile of the dish.

If you want to make the casserole a bit healthier or cater to dietary preferences, you can use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. This substitution provides a tangy flavor and creamy texture while reducing the overall fat content. Additionally, you can add in vegetables like steamed broccoli or sautéed mushrooms to amp up the nutritional value and add extra flavor and texture to the casserole.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try layering the Twice Baked Potato Casserole in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a charming and personalized presentation. Top each serving with a sprinkle of crispy bacon and a drizzle of sour cream for an elegant touch. This not only makes for a visually appealing dish but also allows each guest to enjoy their own perfectly portioned casserole.

Another fun way to serve the Twice Baked Potato Casserole is by turning it into a loaded potato bar. Set out bowls of toppings like extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, crispy bacon bits, and even some diced jalapeños or ranch seasoning mix for guests to customize their own servings. This interactive setup adds an element of fun to mealtime and lets everyone tailor their casserole to their taste preferences.

FAQs for Cheesy Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this casserole ahead of time. Assemble the whole dish the day before, refrigerate it overnight, and then bake it the next day. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even heating.

Can I freeze the casserole?

Yes, you can freeze this casserole either before or after baking for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating. If freezing it unbaked, add the final cheese and bacon topping fresh before baking.

What can I do to customize this casserole?

You can customize this casserole in various ways. Add cream cheese for a richer flavor, steamed broccoli for added nutrition, pepper jack cheese for heat, or ranch seasoning mix for a different taste. You can also use different cheese varieties, add toppings like crushed potato chips, or mix in ingredients like ham, mushrooms, or caramelized onions.

How should I reheat leftovers?

Reheat individual portions of the casserole in the microwave for a minute or two until heated through. For reheating the whole casserole, cover it with foil and bake in a 350-degree oven for about 20 minutes. The texture holds up well to refrigeration and reheating, though the potato skins might soften slightly after a day or two.

Conclusion

As you embark on making this delightful Twice Baked Potato Casserole, remember that the beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and comforting flavors. Whether you’re serving it up for a special holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, this casserole is sure to impress with its rich and creamy goodness. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your own twists and additions to make it truly your own!

So go ahead, whip up a batch of this Twice Baked Potato Casserole and watch it disappear before your eyes, leaving behind only satisfied smiles and requests for seconds. Embrace the ease of preparation and the joy of sharing a dish that’s bound to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Cheers to many more delicious moments shared around the table with this scrumptious casserole in the spotlight!