There’s something magical about a twice baked potato casserole recipe that makes it the ultimate comfort food. Imagine creamy, buttery potatoes mingling with layers of cheese, crispy bacon, and sour cream—it’s like a hug in a dish. When you pull this beauty out of the oven, the aroma wafts through your kitchen, drawing everyone in like moths to a flame.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or even just when you need a pick-me-up. I remember the first time I made it; my friends practically begged me for the recipe! The anticipation of that first bite is part of the fun, and trust me, it delivers in flavor every single time.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This twice baked potato casserole recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The combination of flavors creates a mouthwatering experience you’ll crave
- Its golden-brown top is visually stunning and will impress your guests
- Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings for added versatility
I still chuckle when I think about how my cousin once tried to sneak seconds during dinner—he thought I didn’t see him! This dish has that effect on people; it’s simply irresistible.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Russet Potatoes: Choose large, firm potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
- Sour Cream: Opt for full-fat sour cream to add creaminess to your casserole.
- Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for a robust flavor that complements the potatoes perfectly.
- Bacon Bits: Cooked bacon adds a smoky crunch; feel free to use turkey bacon if preferred.
- Green Onions: Slice these thinly to sprinkle on top for a fresh finish.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning in your dish.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out all the flavors in this casserole.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry your russet potatoes before pricking them with a fork several times. This prevents steam buildup while baking.
Bake Until Tender: Place your prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for about 45-60 minutes until they are tender enough to pierce easily with a fork.
Cool and Scoop Out: Once baked, let them cool slightly before handling. Carefully scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl while leaving some potato on the skin for structure.
Mash It Up: Add butter, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the bowl with scooped potatoes. Mash everything together until creamy and smooth—this is where you can taste-test!
Add Cheese and Bacon: Fold in shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon bits into the mashed mixture. The cheesy goodness will melt upon baking, creating that coveted gooey texture everyone loves.
Fill Those Skins: Spoon the potato mixture back into those hollowed-out skins generously. Top with additional cheese if desired. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top for an extra pop of color.
Bake Again: Return filled potatoes to the oven for another 20-25 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until they’re golden brown and bubbly—your kitchen will smell divine!
Now you’re ready to serve this delicious twice baked potato casserole recipe hot out of the oven! Get ready for smiles all around as everyone digs in—don’t be surprised if you find yourself having to guard leftovers from sneaky family members!
You Must Know
- This twice baked potato casserole recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines creamy potatoes and savory toppings
- You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your family’s taste preferences
- The comforting aroma and cheesy goodness will make it a staple in your home
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by baking the potatoes until tender, then scoop and mix with your favorite ingredients before baking again for a golden finish.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out cheddar cheese for gouda or add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in an oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use russet potatoes for a fluffy texture, and always season your layers well for maximum flavor impact
- Don’t overmix the potato mixture; you want it creamy yet slightly chunky for great texture
Sharing this casserole at family gatherings always brings smiles, especially when my niece declares it her new favorite dish.

FAQ
Can I make this twice baked potato casserole ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to the second bake, then refrigerate and bake just before serving.
What can I substitute for sour cream in this recipe?
Greek yogurt works well as a tangy alternative to sour cream.
How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?
Potatoes are done when a fork easily pierces through their skin and flesh.

Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Twice Baked Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, blending creamy russet potatoes, rich cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and tangy sour cream into a delightful dish. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, this casserole offers a warm hug in every bite. The golden-brown topping and savory aroma are sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more.
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 cup full-fat sour cream
- 1 ½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry russet potatoes; prick with a fork.
- Bake potatoes directly on the oven rack for 45-60 minutes until tender.
- Let cool slightly, then scoop out insides into a mixing bowl, leaving some potato in the skin.
- Add butter, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; mash until smooth.
- Fold in cheddar cheese and bacon bits.
- Stuff potato skins with mixture; top with more cheese and green onions.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for another 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 85 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg






