Twice Baked Potato Casserole With Bacon
Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Twice Baked Potato Casserole with Bacon! This delightful dish is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a touch of fresh green onions. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or simply craving a special treat, this casserole is bound to impress and satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it combines all the best parts of a loaded baked potato into one easy-to-make dish. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to tailor it with your favorite toppings or cheeses. Plus, the combination of flavors is irresistible, making it a hit at dinner parties or family gatherings.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Oven
- 9×13 baking pan
- Cooking spray
- Squeeze bottle
Ingredients
- 5 lbs of Yukon Gold potatoes, baked
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 2 lbs thick cut bacon, cooked and chopped
- 2 cups sour cream
- 2 cups Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar cheese, shredded
- 4 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Pour the sour cream into the squeeze bottle.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and grease a 9×13 baking pan with cooking spray. Set it aside.
- Cut the baked potatoes into bite-size pieces.
- Layer half of the potatoes at the bottom of the baking pan and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Add half of the chopped bacon over the potatoes.
- Drizzle sour cream over the bacon. It’s okay if it doesn’t cover everything.
- Sprinkle half of the Cheddar and Mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Add another layer of potatoes, followed by a bit more cheese.
- Top with the remaining bacon and another drizzle of sour cream.
- Finish with the remaining cheese and scatter chopped green onions on top.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve hot. Enjoy!
Tips for Success
- For a creamier texture, consider mashing some of the potatoes before layering.
- Make sure your bacon is crispy before adding it to the casserole for the best texture.
Additional Tips or Variations
Feel free to experiment by adding ingredients like caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or even a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor. Vegetarians can substitute bacon with sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
This dish is a hearty indulgence, rich in protein and calcium from the cheese and bacon. It also provides fiber from the potatoes’ skins. Enjoy it as an occasional treat as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I prepare this casserole in advance? Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just bake it before serving.
- Is it possible to freeze this dish? Absolutely! Freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
- What other cheeses can I use? Feel free to use any cheese you love, like Gruyère or Monterey Jack, for a different flavor profile.
In conclusion, this Twice Baked Potato Casserole with Bacon is a delightful dish that becomes the star of any meal. Give it a try and savor the blend of flavors and textures. We’d love to hear your thoughts, so please share your experience and any creative twists you try!