Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Creamy and delicious, Twice Baked Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food for any gathering. This dish combines the classic flavors of baked potatoes with Turkey Turkey Bacon, sharp cheddar, and scallions, creating a delightful side dish that appeals to all ages. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: This casserole is rich and creamy, making it a comforting addition to any meal.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a side for dinner or serve it at potlucks and gatherings.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is simple enough for novice cooks to master.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare it in advance and bake when you’re ready to serve!
• Family-Friendly: The combination of cheese and bacon makes this dish a hit with both kids and adults.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Twice Baked Potato Casserole, gather your tools to make the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Baking dish (2-quart)
• Fork
• Handheld potato masher
• Nonstick cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mashing the potatoes and mixing ingredients without spills.
• Baking dish (2-quart): Perfect size for holding all the delicious ingredients while baking evenly.
• Handheld potato masher: Ensures smooth mashed potatoes without needing a bulky electric mixer.

Ingredients

Creamy potato casserole with Turkey Turkey Bacon, cheddar, and scallions. A comfort dish for any occasion.

For the Casserole Base

• 6 medium to large russet or gold potatoes
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¾ cup sour cream
• ½ cup whole or 2% milk
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
• 8 slices Turkey Turkey Bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
• 4 green onions, chopped

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Wash and dry the potatoes before pricking them with a fork. Place them in the oven and bake for 45-60 minutes until they are fork-tender.

Step 2: Cool and Peel Potatoes

Once baked, plunge the hot potatoes into ice-cold water. After cooling slightly, gently peel off the skin using your fingers. Cut the peeled potatoes into large cubes and transfer them into a large mixing bowl.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add the following ingredients to the bowl:
1. 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2. ¾ cup sour cream
3. ½ cup whole or 2% milk
4. ½ teaspoon onion powder
5. ½ teaspoon garlic powder
6. ½ teaspoon salt
7. ¼ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
8. ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
9. ½ cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
10. Half of the crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon.
11. Half of the chopped scallions.

Using a handheld potato masher, mash everything together until well combined. Transfer this mixture into a sprayed 2-quart baking dish.

Step 4: Add Toppings and Bake

Top your casserole with the remaining cheeses, crumbled Turkey Turkey Bacon, and green onions. Cover it with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil after this time and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully and everything is heated through.

How to Serve Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Serving Twice Baked Potato Casserole can elevate any meal. This creamy and cheesy dish pairs well with various sides and can be presented in different ways to delight your guests.

As a Main Dish

• Hearty Meal: Serve it as the centerpiece of a cozy dinner, accompanied by a light salad for balance.
• Potato Lover’s Delight: Pair it with grilled meats or roasted vegetables to create a satisfying meal.

As a Side Dish

• Versatile Option: Use it as a side for holiday feasts or family gatherings, complementing dishes like turkey or ham.
• Comfort Food Combo: It pairs beautifully with meatloaf or fried chicken for a classic comfort food experience.

Casual Gatherings

• Game Day Treat: Offer it at potlucks or game day parties, served warm in a slow cooker to keep it creamy.
• Finger Food Twist: Scoop individual servings into small bowls for easy serving at casual get-togethers.

How to Perfect Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Perfecting your Twice Baked Potato Casserole can enhance its flavor and texture. Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Bold seasoning: Don’t be shy with spices. Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste for an extra flavor boost.
• Creamy consistency: If the mixture seems too thick, add more milk gradually until you reach the desired creaminess.
• Cheese varieties: Experiment with different cheese blends like pepper jack or gouda for unique flavors.
• Bacon crispness: Cook the Turkey Turkey Bacon until crispy before adding it; this prevents sogginess in the casserole.
• Bake covered first: Covering the dish during the first part of baking helps retain moisture, ensuring the potatoes stay tender.
• Let it rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 10-15 minutes after baking. This makes serving easier and allows flavors to meld.

Best Side Dishes for Twice Baked Potato Casserole

Twice Baked Potato Casserole is versatile and can be complemented with various sides. Here are some delicious options that pair perfectly with this comforting dish.

1. Grilled Chicken Salad: Fresh greens topped with grilled chicken provide a light contrast to the richness of the casserole.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A simple steamed broccoli side adds color and nutrients while balancing flavors nicely.
3. Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks are perfect for scooping up any leftover casserole on your plate.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts enhances the comfort feel of your meal.
5. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds crunch that complements the creamy casserole.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a classic side that brings sweetness and freshness alongside this hearty dish.
7. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing bite that contrasts well with the rich potato flavors.
8. Baked Beans: The sweet and savory notes of baked beans create an enjoyable combination with the twice baked potato casserole.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Twice Baked Potato Casserole, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Overcooking Potatoes: Cooking the potatoes too long can lead to a mushy texture. Bake until fork tender but not falling apart.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Plunging potatoes into ice-cold water helps them cool quickly and makes peeling easier. Don’t skip this step!
• Not Mashing Well Enough: If you don’t mash the potato mixture well, your casserole may have lumps. Use a handheld masher for a smooth consistency.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Failing to season properly can result in bland flavor. Be generous with salt and pepper, as well as any additional spices you like.
• Ignoring Cheese Variety: Using only one type of cheese can limit flavor complexity. Mix different cheeses for a more delicious casserole.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• item The casserole will keep well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing Twice Baked Potato Casserole

• item Freeze the casserole before baking for best results.
• item Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Twice Baked Potato Casserole

• item Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil for about 25 minutes or until hot.
• item Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• item Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring frequently until warmed evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Twice Baked Potato Casserole?

Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a creamy and cheesy dish made from potatoes, cheese, and toppings like Turkey Turkey Bacon. It’s similar to traditional twice baked potatoes but easier to serve.

Can I customize my Twice Baked Potato Casserole?

Absolutely! You can add other ingredients like broccoli, sour cream variations, or different types of meats to suit your taste.

How do I reheat Twice Baked Potato Casserole?

Reheat using an oven, microwave, or stovetop as detailed above. Each method ensures your casserole stays creamy and delicious.

What sides pair well with Twice Baked Potato Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with salads, grilled meats, or even as part of a potluck spread. It’s versatile enough for any occasion!

Final Thoughts

Twice Baked Potato Casserole is an ultimate comfort food that combines creamy potatoes with rich flavors of cheese and Turkey Turkey Bacon. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various toppings or mix-ins based on your preferences. Try this recipe for your next gathering—it’s bound to be a hit!

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