Introduction:

Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a mouthwatering comfort food that brings together crispy, flavorful potatoes with creamy deliciousness – a perfect dish to serve at any occasion or simply enjoy as a weeknight meal. This easy-to-make recipe will become a family favorite in no time! Follow this step-by-step guide to making the best Twice Baked Potato Casserole.

Ingredients:

– 8 large russet potatoes

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

– 1 cup sour cream

– 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

– 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided

– 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

– 3 green onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with aluminum foil.

2. Scrub the russet potatoes well under cold water and thoroughly dry them. Poke each potato several times with a fork so that steam can escape while baking.

3. Arrange the potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for about an hour or until they are fork-tender. Allow the potatoes to cool for approximately 15 minutes or until they can be handled safely.

4. Once cooled, cut the potatoes in half and carefully scoop out the pulp into a large mixing bowl, leaving about a quarter-inch thickness of the potato skin for support.

5. In the mixing bowl with the potato pulp, add melted butter, sour cream, whole milk or heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Combine well using either an electric mixer or a hand-held potato masher until smooth and creamy.

6. Stir in 1.5 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions, reserving some for topping later.

7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and coat a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. Transfer the potato mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly.

8. Top the casserole with the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese and any reserved bacon crumbles or chopped green onions.

9. Bake the casserole uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

10. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Twice Baked Potato Casserole!

Tips:

– To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the bacon or replace it with a vegetarian bacon alternative.

– For added flavor, you can also mix in cooked and chopped broccoli or other vegetables to suit your preferences.

– Make-ahead tip: Prepare the casserole up to step 8 and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to serve it, simply continue with step

9 by baking it in a preheated oven for 25-30 minutes.