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Crispy Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe with Bacon and Chive

crispy twice baked potato casserole - featured image

A comforting casserole featuring crispy baked potato skins filled with a creamy, cheesy potato mixture folded with smoky bacon and fresh chives, topped with a golden, bubbly cheddar crust.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet baked potatoes
  • 6 strips thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
  • 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, plus extra for topping
  • 3 tablespoons fresh chives, finely chopped
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt for a tangier twist)
  • ¼ cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry russet potatoes thoroughly.
  2. Bake potatoes directly on the oven rack for 45-60 minutes until tender.
  3. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp, about 8 minutes. Drain on paper towels and chop.
  4. Let potatoes cool about 10 minutes. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out insides into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin shell.
  5. Mash potato flesh with butter, sour cream, and milk until smooth but fluffy. Add garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and most of the chives (reserve some for garnish). Add more milk if mixture is too stiff.
  7. Spoon filling back into potato skins and arrange in a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
  8. Sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top.
  9. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until cheese melts and tops are crisp and golden.
  10. Remove from oven and garnish with remaining fresh chives.
  11. Serve warm.

Notes

For an even crispier top, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to prevent burning. Use room temperature butter and sour cream for easier mixing and creamier filling. Do not over-mash potatoes to keep some texture. Bacon fat can be saved to sauté chives for extra flavor. This recipe is naturally gluten-free. For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and add extra cheese or sautéed mushrooms.

Nutrition

Keywords: twice baked potatoes, potato casserole, bacon casserole, cheesy potatoes, comfort food, chives, crispy topping