The Southern Living Twice-Baked Potato Casserole is more than just a side dish—it’s pure comfort food. Creamy potatoes, gooey cheese, crispy bacon, and just the right seasoning make this casserole a total crowd-pleaser. Perfect for family dinners or holiday get-togethers, it’s the dish everyone will be talking about.
Whether you’re a longtime lover of Southern cuisine or new to the irresistible world of casseroles, this recipe is a must-try.
Dive in as we explore what makes this twice-baked potato casserole so adored, the ingredients and tools you’ll need, step-by-step cooking instructions, and tips for getting it just right every time.
Why Do People Love This Twice-Baked Potato Casserole Recipe?
This twice-baked potato casserole is beloved for its perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, combined with the comforting texture of baked potatoes.
With ingredients like sour cream, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, this dish is rich, satisfying, and hard to resist. Plus, it’s super versatile—serve it as a side or make it the main event. It goes great with all kinds of proteins and veggies, making it a hit with just about everyone!
Another reason for its popularity is its make-ahead convenience; the casserole can be prepared beforehand and baked when needed, making it an ideal choice for busy days or hosting events. This recipe transforms a classic comfort food into an elevated dish that’s easy to love.
Ingredients Needed for Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Before you get started, here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delicious dish.
Main Ingredients
- 6 large russet potatoes, cleaned and scrubbed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- 6 slices crisp bacon, crumbled
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional Toppings
- Crumbled blue cheese for extra richness
- Paprika for a smoky touch
- Extra bacon (because why not?)
Equipment Needed
To streamline your cooking process, have these tools handy in your kitchen:
- A large baking sheet for roasting potatoes
- A mixing bowl to combine ingredients
- A potato masher or hand mixer for creating the creamy potato base
- A 9×13-inch casserole dish for baking
- Aluminum foil (optional) for covering during baking
Step-by-Step Recipe for Twice-Baked Potato Casserole
This foolproof recipe will guide you through creating the perfect dish, step by step.
Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab some washed russet potatoes, leave them whole, and pop them on a baking sheet. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until they’re nice and tender. Once they’ve cooled down a bit, cut them in half and scoop out the fluffy insides into a big mixing bowl. Don’t toss the skins—save them for another recipe if you like!
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
Mash up those potatoes until they’re smooth and fluffy. Then mix in some sour cream, milk, butter, a cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until it’s creamy and delicious. The texture should be thick but still nice and velvety.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Scoop the mashed potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top, then finish it off with a layer of crumbled bacon. Cover the dish with foil—you’re almost there!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Turn the oven down to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 20 minutes with the foil on. After that, take the foil off and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbling.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve it up warm and watch it disappear in no time!
Serving Suggestions
This Twice-Baked Potato Casserole is exceptionally versatile. Pair it with these dishes for a complete Southern-inspired feast:
- Fried or Grilled Chicken – The rich and creamy casserole perfectly complements the crispy exterior and juicy interior of fried or grilled chicken.
- Barbecue Ribs – The smoky, tangy flavors of barbecue ribs balance wonderfully with the comforting creaminess of the dish.
- Steamed Vegetables – Add a healthy touch to your plate with vibrant, lightly seasoned steamed vegetables.
- Garden Salad – A fresh, crisp garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the casserole’s richness.
- Buttermilk Biscuits – Fluffy and buttery biscuits are a delightful addition to round out your meal.
- Cornbread – Sweet and savory cornbread is a classic Southern staple that pairs beautifully with this dish.
Storage Tips and Best Practices
Caught with leftovers? Lucky you! Follow these storage tips to enjoy the dish long after the first serving.
- Cool Before Storing – Allow the dish to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This prevents condensation, which can make the food soggy.
- Use Airtight Containers – Store leftovers in airtight containers to lock in freshness and prevent the food from absorbing odors in the refrigerator.
- Label and Date – Clearly label containers with the date they were stored to ensure you use them within a safe timeframe.
- Refrigerate Promptly – Place leftovers in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking to maintain food safety.
- Freeze for Longer Storage – If you’d like to store the dish for more than a few days, consider freezing it. Be sure to use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
- Reheat Properly – When reheating, ensure the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to make it safe for consumption and preserve its quality.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Twice-Baked Potato Casserole
I know you’re already a pro, but here are some extra tips to make this dish truly unforgettable.
- Choose the Right Potatoes – Use starchy potatoes like russets for the best texture. Their fluffiness allows them to absorb flavors and create a creamy consistency.
- Don’t Skimp on Seasoning – Season every layer of your casserole with salt, pepper, and any other desired spices to ensure flavor is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
- Add Cheese Strategically – Mix some cheese into the potato mixture for creaminess but save a portion to sprinkle on top for a golden, bubbling crust when baked.
- Use Sour Cream or Cream Cheese – Add sour cream or cream cheese makes the potatoes rich and velvety, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
- Layer Toppings Sparingly – Avoid overwhelming the casserole with toppings like bacon or green onions. A balanced approach ensures harmony between flavors and textures.
- Test for Doneness – Insert a fork or skewer into the casserole to check for a smooth and creamy texture before removing it from the oven.
FAQ
Q: Can I prepare the casserole ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and then follow the baking instructions.
Q: Can I substitute ingredients if I have dietary restrictions?
A: Absolutely. You can use dairy-free cream cheese or sour cream for a lactose-free option, and gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. Adjusting seasonings and toppings can also personalize the recipe to suit your dietary needs.
Q: How do I prevent the casserole from drying out?
A: Ensuring a balance of wet ingredients such as sour cream, cream cheese, and butter is essential. Additionally, covering the casserole with foil during the first part of baking locks in moisture.
Q: What is the best way to store leftovers?
A: Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover it with foil and warm it in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Q: Can I freeze the casserole?
A: Yes, this casserole freezes well. For best results, freeze it unbaked in an airtight container. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed.
Conclusion
This Twice-Baked Potato Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that will quickly become a staple in your household. With its creamy, savory flavors and customizable toppings, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Use the tips and serving suggestions provided to make this simple yet impressive dish even more enjoyable. Happy cooking!
Southern Living Twice-Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- A large baking sheet for roasting potatoes
- A mixing bowl to combine ingredients
- A potato masher or hand mixer for creating the creamy potato base
- A 9×13-inch casserole dish for baking
- Aluminum foil (optional for covering during baking)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 large russet potatoes cleaned and scrubbed
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded (divided)
- 6 slices crisp bacon crumbled
- 2 green onions thinly sliced for garnish
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- Crumbled blue cheese for extra richness
- Paprika for a smoky touch
- Extra bacon because why not?
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
- First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab some washed russet potatoes, leave them whole, and pop them on a baking sheet. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until they’re nice and tender. Once they’ve cooled down a bit, cut them in half and scoop out the fluffy insides into a big mixing bowl. Don’t toss the skins—save them for another recipe if you like!
Step 2: Make the Creamy Base
- Mash up those potatoes until they’re smooth and fluffy. Then mix in some sour cream, milk, butter, a cup of shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until it’s creamy and delicious. The texture should be thick but still nice and velvety.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
- Scoop the mashed potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the cheddar cheese on top, then finish it off with a layer of crumbled bacon. Cover the dish with foil—you’re almost there!
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Turn the oven down to 375°F (190°C) and bake the casserole for 20 minutes with the foil on. After that, take the foil off and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden and bubbling.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve it up warm and watch it disappear in no time!
