Twice Baked Potato Casserole combines all the flavors you love about twice-baked potatoes into one creamy, cheesy casserole. This easy-to-make dish features mashed potatoes loaded with sour cream, cheese, bacon, and green onions, then baked to perfection for a golden, crispy top. It’s a perfect side dish for any dinner, whether you’re serving it for a family meal or bringing it to a potluck. With the rich, comforting flavors of twice-baked potatoes, this casserole is sure to become a new favorite at your table.

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 slices)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the pan)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)

Directions:

Prepare the potatoes:

1. Cook the potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce the potatoes with a fork and bake them directly on the oven rack for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. Alternatively, you can microwave the potatoes until soft, about 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
2. Mash the potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, let them cool slightly. Cut them in half and scoop out the insides into a large bowl, discarding the skins. Mash the potatoes until smooth, leaving a few lumps for texture if desired.

Make the casserole mixture:

3. Add the creamy ingredients: To the mashed potatoes, add sour cream, cream cheese, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy. Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the casserole:

4. Prepare the casserole dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Transfer the mashed potato mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.
5. Top with cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Bake the casserole:

6. Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve:

7. Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with extra chopped green onions before serving.

Notes:

• Potato Variations: You can use any type of potato for this casserole, but russet potatoes are ideal due to their fluffy texture when mashed.
• Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the casserole ahead of time by assembling it, covering it with plastic wrap, and refrigerating it for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to increase the baking time if baking directly from the fridge.
• Toppings: Feel free to add extra toppings like shredded cheese, extra bacon, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing for added flavor.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.

Conclusion:

Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish that brings all the flavors of twice-baked potatoes into an easy-to-make casserole. With mashed potatoes, bacon, cheese, and green onions, this comforting side dish is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or bringing it to a potluck, Twice Baked Potato Casserole is sure to be a crowd favorite.