Twice Baked Potato Casserole - Creamy Potato Bake

Is there anything more comforting than home-cooked potatoes, cheese, and bacon? This twice-baked potato casserole is the perfect crowd-pleaser for family dinners and gatherings. It's simple to make, deliciously creamy, and packed with flavor. Let's get started!

Ingredients

Here's everything you need to create this mouth-watering dish:

• 6 large russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 3 green onions, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: Chopped chives or parsley

Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly.
3. Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
4. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon until crispy:

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the bacon strips and cook until they are crisp about 8-10 minutes.
3. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
4. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.

Step 3: Shred the Cheese

Shred both the cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Set aside.

Assembly

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Scoop the flesh out of the baked potatoes into a large mixing bowl, leaving a small amount of flesh on the skins to keep their shape.
3. Add the sour cream, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until well combined and creamy.
4. Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the shredded mozzarella cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon.
5. Transfer the potato mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top of the potato mixture.
7. Sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon and sliced green onions on top.

Baking

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley, if desired.
3. Serve warm alongside your favorite main dishes, like grilled meats or a fresh salad.

This twice-baked potato casserole is sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or gathering. Its creamy texture and savory flavors make it a true comfort food classic. Enjoy!

Conclusion

We hope you love making and sharing this twice-baked potato casserole with your loved ones. It's a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. Don't forget to snap a photo and share it.