Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

Name: Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: 6 medium Russet potatoes; 1 cup sour cream; ½ cup milk; ¼ cup butter, melted; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional); 2 green onions, chopped

This twice baked potato casserole recipe is creamy, cheesy, and full of comfort. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, busy weeknights, or cold evenings when you want something filling and warm. I love keeping this recipe simple so I can whip it up without stress. The combination of soft potatoes, melted cheese, and flavorful seasonings makes it a dish everyone will enjoy. It’s also easy to prepare ahead of time and customize with your favorite add-ins, making it a reliable choice for family meals or a casual gathering.

photo of a warm casserole dish filled with creamy 1

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This twice baked potato casserole is cozy, easy, and versatile. The creamy potatoes and golden topping make it a crowd-pleaser for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s also great for leftovers—perfect for reheating or freezing for later. You can adjust ingredients to suit your family’s tastes, making it flexible and budget-friendly. It comes together quickly with simple pantry staples, yet feels like a hearty, comforting dish. Whether you want a cheesy side or a full meal, this casserole is freezer-friendly, practical, and guaranteed to satisfy. A dish like this is one you’ll want to save for busy evenings or casual family dinners.

photo of a warm casserole dish filled with creamy

Ingredients

Tip: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for a fluffy texture

6 medium Russet potatoes
1 cup sour cream
½ cup milk
¼ cup butter, melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
2 green onions, chopped

photo of the ingredients for a potato casserole ne

Instructions

Step 1: Preparation Preheat oven to 400°F. Wash and pierce potatoes with a fork. Bake for 45–50 minutes until tender and soft. Remove and let cool slightly before halving lengthwise. Scoop out the insides into a bowl.

Step 2: Main Cooking Process Mash the potato flesh with sour cream, milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Stir in half the cheese and optional bacon, folding evenly.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients Spoon the potato mixture back into the potato shells or into a greased casserole dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top and arrange green onions for garnish.

Step 4: Finishing & Final Simmer Bake uncovered at 375°F for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted and slightly golden. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Days

This casserole is ideal for meal prep or quick family dinners. You can bake the potatoes ahead of time, mix the filling, and assemble later. It reheats well in the oven or microwave, making it a stress-free option for busy evenings. Leftovers can be frozen, giving you a ready-to-go comfort meal anytime.

Tips & Tricks

Use starchy potatoes for fluffier texture. Avoid boiling them first, as baking enhances flavor and keeps the casserole creamy.
Don’t overmix the potato filling; fold ingredients gently for a light, airy texture.
Make potato halves similar in size to ensure even baking.
Garnish with fresh herbs or green onions just before serving to keep the topping vibrant.

Variations

Add cooked sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for a meaty version.
Skip bacon and mix in sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for a vegetarian option.
Replace cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack, and add cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Mix in smoked paprika, chopped chives, or fresh rosemary for a flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with roasted chicken or steak for a hearty family meal.
Serve alongside steamed broccoli or green beans for a balanced plate.
Add a dollop of sour cream or drizzle of ranch for extra indulgence.
Serve in individual ramekins for a fun, shareable presentation.

Storage Instructions

Fridge storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezing: Freeze fully cooled casserole in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Make-ahead tips: Prepare the potato filling ahead, store in the fridge, and assemble just before baking.

Recipe Timing

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Rest Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutrition Information

Calories 300–350 per serving, Protein 10–12g. Key nutrients: Calcium from cheese, potassium from potatoes. Values may vary based on ingredients and portions.

FAQs

Yes, assemble and refrigerate the casserole, then bake before serving.

Overmixing or high-moisture potatoes can cause this.

Sweet potatoes or Yukon golds work well, adjusting baking time.

Ensure potatoes are fully baked and mash thoroughly with butter and milk.

Store in fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for 3 months.

Conclusion

This twice baked potato casserole recipe is a comforting, cheesy dish you’ll love for family meals or casual gatherings. Its flexibility allows for meat, veggie, or flavor variations, making it a versatile option for any occasion. You can prep ahead, freeze, and enjoy leftovers, making it a reliable, cozy choice. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s approachable and brings warmth to the table. Once you try it, this casserole will quickly become a favorite for busy weeknights and special dinners alike.