Twice-Baked Potato Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole is everything you love about classic baked potatoes—only better. It’s creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly rich, with a golden, bubbly topping that makes every bite pure comfort food heaven. Whether you’re planning a holiday feast, a cozy family dinner, or a potluck dish that’ll impress everyone, this casserole is a guaranteed hit.

If you’ve never made a twice-baked potato casserole before, don’t worry—I’ll guide you through every step, from choosing the right potatoes to perfecting the creamy, flavorful filling. Plus, I’ll share expert tips to make sure your casserole turns out just right.

So, let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make this warm, cheesy, and soul-satisfying dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The ultimate comfort food – Creamy mashed potatoes mixed with butter, sour cream, and cheese.
• Perfect for gatherings – It’s easy to make in a big batch, making it ideal for family dinners, Thanksgiving, or Christmas.
• Customizable – Add chicken bacon, extra cheese, or even roasted garlic for more flavor.
• Make-ahead friendly – You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready.
• Kid-approved – Even picky eaters love the cheesy, buttery goodness of this casserole.

What Does Twice-Baked Potato Casserole Taste Like?

Imagine the best loaded baked potato—fluffy, creamy, buttery, and packed with cheese—but in casserole form. The top layer becomes golden and slightly crispy, while the inside stays rich, smooth, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. A touch of garlic, green onions, and cheddar cheese adds layers of flavor that make this dish completely irresistible.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Base:

• 6 large russet potatoes (they give the fluffiest texture)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1 cup sour cream (adds tang and creaminess)
• ½ cup milk (adjust for desired creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder (adds subtle depth)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Mix-Ins:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a rich, cheesy flavor)
• ¼ cup chopped green onions (adds freshness and a little crunch)
• ¼ cup chopped parsley (for color and a touch of herbaceous flavor)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (melts beautifully and adds a gooey, stretchy texture)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup crumbled chicken bacon – Because chicken bacon makes everything better!
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky depth.
• ½ cup cream cheese – For an extra creamy and tangy texture.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Enhances the savory flavor.

Choosing the Right Potatoes for the Best Texture

Not all potatoes are created equal, and for a perfect twice-baked potato casserole, you need the right kind. Russet potatoes are the best choice because they are:

✔ High in starch – Creates the fluffiest mashed potatoes.
✔ Absorbent – Soaks up all the buttery, creamy goodness.
✔ Light and airy – Keeps the casserole from becoming dense.

Avoid using waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or Red potatoes, as they have a firmer texture and won’t mash as smoothly.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Baking sheet – To bake the potatoes.
• Large mixing bowl – For mashing and mixing ingredients.
• Potato masher or hand mixer – To get that perfectly creamy texture.
• Knife and cutting board – For prepping ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Precision is key!
• Casserole dish – The final destination for your delicious creation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the potatoes, then poke holes with a fork to allow steam to escape. Place them directly on a baking sheet and bake for 1 hour, or until they are fork-tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Once the potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly until they’re easy to handle. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh into a large mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer of potato inside the skins to hold their shape.

Mash the potato flesh with butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Then, stir in the cheddar cheese, green onions, and parsley until everything is well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Transfer the mashed potato mixture into a greased casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella cheese for that golden, bubbly finish.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, like extra sour cream, chopped chives, or crispy chicken bacon bits.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is a perfect side dish, but it can also be the star of the meal. Here’s what you can pair it with:

• Grilled steak, roasted chicken, or pork chops – Adds protein and balances the richness.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables – Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
• Fresh green salad – A light salad with vinaigrette complements the creamy potatoes.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

To Make Ahead:

• Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days before baking.
• Bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 10 minutes to the baking time.

To Store Leftovers:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To Freeze:

• Let the casserole cool completely, then wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

To Reheat:

• Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! Try Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even smoked Gouda for a unique twist.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it in advance and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can use Greek yogurt or cream cheese as a substitute.

Can I add meat?

Yes! Crumbled chicken bacon, diced turkey, or shredded chicken would all be delicious additions.

More Comfort Food Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this Twice-Baked Potato Casserole, check out these other comforting recipes:

• Classic Bread Pudding
• Apple Cinnamon Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping
• Chocolate Peppermint Swirl Cookies

Follow along on Facebook for more delicious recipes. Try this casserole and let me know what you think!

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