Loaded Twice Baked Potato Casserole

This Loaded Twice Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining all the delicious elements of a loaded baked potato into a rich and creamy casserole. With layers of fluffy mashed potatoes, gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh green onions, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baking potatoes, such as Russet, scrubbed and pierced* (See Notes for using leftover mashed potatoes)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, cubed
• ⅔ cup sour cream (lite can be used)
• ½ cup milk (whole milk recommended)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 3 cups shredded cheese (cheddar blend recommended)
• 10 – 12 strips bacon, cooked and diced small, with 2 tablespoons reserved
• ⅓ cup green onions, with 2 tablespoons reserved

Instructions

1. Preheat and Bake Potatoes:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (use convection if available). Pierce each potato 4 or 5 times with a fork or knife to prevent them from exploding. Place the potatoes directly on the oven grates and bake for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until they are tender. Optionally rotate or flip the potatoes halfway through baking.

1. Prepare Potatoes and Reduce Oven Temperature:

• Once the potatoes are done, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F. Allow the potatoes to cool for about 10 to 15 minutes. When they are cool enough to handle, slice each one in half horizontally and scoop out the flesh into a large bowl, discarding the skins.

1. Mash Potatoes:

• Add the cubed butter to the bowl with the potato flesh. Mash the potatoes using a fork or potato masher until smooth, incorporating the butter as you mash.

1. Mix Ingredients:

• Add the sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Stir until well combined. Mix in about 2 to 2 ½ cups of shredded cheese, the diced bacon (reserve 2 tablespoons), and green onions (reserve 2 tablespoons).

1. Assemble Casserole:

• Spray a 3-quart casserole or baking dish with cooking spray. Transfer the potato mixture into the prepared dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Evenly sprinkle the remaining ½ to 1 cup of cheese on top, followed by the reserved bacon.

1. Bake Casserole:

• Bake the casserole in the preheated 350°F oven for about 20 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown to your liking.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Sprinkle the reserved green onions over the top of the casserole. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!

Tips

• Using Leftover Mashed Potatoes: If you have leftover mashed potatoes, you can use them as a base. Simply reheat and combine with the butter, sour cream, milk, and other ingredients.
• Customizing Cheese: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend or add more cheese if you like it extra cheesy.
• Adding Extra Toppings: Consider adding additional toppings like crispy fried onions, extra bacon bits, or a dollop of sour cream before serving for an extra indulgent dish.
• Make-Ahead: This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

This Loaded Twice Baked Potato Casserole is sure to become a family favorite with its rich flavors and comforting textures. Enjoy this delightful dish as a side or a main course for any meal!