Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Elevate your dinner table with this Twice Baked Potato Casserole, a rich and cheesy side dish that’s perfect for holidays, potlucks, or comforting weeknight meals. Made with fluffy potatoes, creamy sour cream, melty cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, crispy bacon, and a hint of garlic and onion, this dish is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a family dinner, this casserole pairs perfectly with roast chicken, beef, or ham. Quick to prep and guaranteed to impress, it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for any occasion!

Ingredients

• 6 medium to large russet or gold potatoes
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ cup whole or 2% milk
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (divided)
• 8 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled (divided)
• 4 green onions, chopped (divided)

Instructions

1. Bake the Potatoes
   Preheat your oven to 375°F. Wash, dry, and prick the potatoes with a fork. Bake for 45-60 minutes or until fork-tender.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
   Once baked, transfer the potatoes into a bowl of ice water. Peel the skins gently using your fingers. Cut the warm potatoes into large cubes and place them in a large mixing bowl.
3. Mash and Mix
   Add butter, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, ½ cup of cheddar cheese, ½ cup of Monterey Jack cheese, half the bacon, and half the green onions to the bowl. Mash the mixture using a handheld potato masher, mixing until creamy.
4. Assemble the Casserole
   Grease a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick spray. Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses, bacon, and green onions.
5. Bake the Casserole
   Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving.

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Tips

• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture.
• For added flavor, try mixing in a dollop of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
• Prep in advance: Bake the potatoes a day ahead and assemble the casserole when ready to bake.

Variations and Substitutions

• Replace Monterey Jack cheese with Colby or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
• Swap bacon with diced ham or cooked sausage for a hearty twist.
• For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While fresh potatoes provide the best flavor, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch. Adjust the seasoning and consistency accordingly.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this casserole with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted turkey for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole combines the creamy comfort of mashed potatoes with the cheesy, savory flavors of a baked casserole. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy weeknight dinner. Its rich, cheesy topping and smoky bacon bits make it an irresistible side dish that everyone will adore!