Dinner

Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe

Name: Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 large baking potatoes; ½ pound lean bacon; 1 ½ cups shredded mild Cheddar cheese (divided); ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup milk; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted); 1 teaspoon dried chives; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

ByLila Prescott February 18, 2026February 18, 2026

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Introduction

This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Creamy mashed potatoes mixed with cheese, bacon, and seasonings are baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy recipe that brings classic flavors into one delicious casserole.

The image shows a white rectangular baking dish filled with a layered casserole. The bottom layer is creamy mashed potatoes, smooth and white. On top, there is a layer of melted yellow cheddar cheese that covers most of the surface unevenly. Scattered over the cheese are small, crispy pieces of golden brown bacon. The dish is sprinkled with finely chopped green chives, adding a fresh pop of color. The baking dish is placed on a wooden board, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large baking potatoes
½ pound lean bacon

1 ½ cups shredded mild Cheddar cheese (divided)
½ cup sour cream

¼ cup milk
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)

1 teaspoon dried chives
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 400°F. Set out butter, sour cream, and milk to bring them to room temperature.
Step 2: Scrub the potatoes clean, dry them, then rub each with canola oil. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes or until tender.

Step 3: While potatoes bake, cook the bacon over low heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and allow to cool.
Step 4: Lower the oven temperature to 350°F. Peel the skins from all but two potatoes, cut the peeled potatoes into thirds, and place them in a mixing bowl.
Step 5: Crumble the cooked bacon, saving some for topping. Mash the potatoes with melted butter, sour cream, half the cheese, dried chives, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

Step 6: Gradually add the milk while mashing until the mixture reaches a creamy consistency.
Step 7: Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish.
Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining cheese and reserved bacon on top. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through and cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Garnish with green onions if desired and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream instead of milk.
Use smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a subtle smoky or spicy kick.

Substitute sharp Cheddar or a cheese blend for different flavor profiles.
Adding chopped green onions or chives into the mashed potatoes enhances freshness.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture.

How to Serve

A white rectangular baking dish holds a baked mashed potato casserole with three visible layers: the bottom is smooth, creamy mashed potatoes in white, topped with a layer of melted golden-yellow cheddar cheese, and on top are small pieces of crispy, browned bacon scattered evenly. Bright green chopped chives are sprinkled across the surface, adding colorful contrast. The edges of the dish show some browned spots from baking. The dish is set on a wooden board with a white marbled texture background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point before baking, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.

What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?

If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika for a smoky flavor without bacon. Alternatively, turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon can be used.