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Twice-Baked Potato Casserole Recipe: Easy Cheddar Bacon Bake

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This twice-baked potato casserole combines creamy mashed potatoes, sharp cheddar, and crispy bacon for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for gatherings, and packed with classic loaded baked potato flavors in a scoopable, shareable bake.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred, or light/Greek yogurt)
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (or half-and-half)
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt, divided
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled, divided
  • 4 green onions, thinly sliced (reserve some for garnish)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder (optional)
  • Chives or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened (optional, for extra richness)
  • Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese (optional, swap or blend with cheddar)
  • Pinch smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)

Instructions

  1. Place peeled, chopped potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water and add 1 tsp salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, until fork-tender.
  2. Drain potatoes in a colander and return to the pot. Add melted butter, sour cream, milk, remaining 1/2 tsp salt, and pepper. Mash until creamy but still slightly chunky.
  3. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar, half the bacon, and half the green onions. Add garlic powder if using. Mix gently and adjust seasoning to taste.
  4. Spoon the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Smooth the top with a spatula, leaving some peaks for browning if desired.
  5. Sprinkle remaining cheddar and bacon over the top. Scatter reserved green onions and chives if using.
  6. Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, until cheese is melted, bubbling, and the top is golden brown. Cover loosely with foil if cheese browns too quickly.
  7. Let casserole sit for 5-10 minutes before serving to set the texture.
  8. Garnish with extra green onions or parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

For best results, use freshly shredded cheese and crisp bacon. Taste potatoes before baking and adjust salt as needed. Make ahead by assembling and refrigerating before baking. Easily adapted for vegetarian, dairy-free, or low-carb diets. Garnish with fresh herbs for color and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: twice-baked potato casserole, cheddar bacon casserole, comfort food, potato bake, easy casserole, loaded potatoes, potluck recipe, family dinner

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