Twice baked potatoes casserole.
Imagine a dish that combines the cozy comfort of baked potatoes with the heartiness of a casserole. That’s exactly what you get with this Twice Baked Potatoes Casserole — a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for any gathering! It’s a delightful twist on classic flavors, bringing together creamy potatoes, savory toppings, and delectable cheese in a way that feels both familiar and exciting.
Whether you’re an experienced cook or trying your hand in the kitchen for the first time, mastering this dish will surely make you the star of your next meal! Ready to dive in? Let’s get started on creating the ultimate comfort food experience!
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Why I Love This Twice Baked Potatoes Casserole Recipe!
I love this Twice Baked Potatoes Casserole recipe for its irresistible combination of comforting flavors and textures. It’s the perfect blend of fluffy mashed potatoes, crispy skins, tangy sour cream, and gooey cheese, all baked together to golden perfection. Every bite is a symphony of creamy richness complemented by savory hints of bacon or the satisfying crunch of breadcrumbs.
Whether served as a hearty side dish or as the star of the meal, this casserole never fails to impress. Its simplicity in preparation belies the depth of flavor it delivers, making it a go-to favorite for gatherings with loved ones or cozy nights in. With each bite, I’m reminded of the warmth and joy that comes from sharing delicious food made with love!
Ingredients for Twice Baked Potatoes Casserole
Russet potatoes. One potato is two servings. Do your math for however many servings you need.
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil, more for lightly coating the potatoes.
- 2 teaspoons salt.
- 1/2 cup melted butter.
- Sour cream, for mixing into the filling and for topping.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder.
- 1 teaspoon chopped parsley.
- 2 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream.
- 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs or bacon bits.
- 2 to 3 green onions, chopped for garnish.
Selecting the Perfect Potatoes
Choosing the right potatoes is the first step toward a delicious twice baked potatoes casserole. Go for large Russets for their fluffy interior and sturdy skin. They bake well and offer a neutral taste that’s like a blank canvas, ready to absorb all the flavors you’ll add later.
Think of them as the foundation of your casserole masterpiece. And remember, uniformity is key; pick potatoes that are similar in size to ensure even baking. Trust me, it’ll make all the difference! I love the big ones!
Properly Baking the Potatoes
When it comes to twice-baked potatoes casserole, the initial bake is crucial. Think of it as laying the foundation for a masterpiece. Aim for a 400°F oven, ensuring your spuds achieve that perfect softness inside with a slightly crisp skin.
Wash them thoroughly, prick them with a fork to let steam escape, and bake for about an hour. Remember, a little olive oil and a sprinkle of salt on the skins can elevate the flavor profile. This step isn’t just about cooking; it’s about starting the flavor-building process that makes this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Slicing the Potatoes In Half
After your potatoes are perfectly baked, it is time to prepare them. Slice the potatoes in half length-wise as shown in the following photos. The camera lens steamed up when I was trying to snap a close-up of me slicing the potatoes for you to see. So sorry about the fogginess!
I was a bit impatient and did not wait for them to cool down before I started slicing them. I held them steady with a fork and then sliced them in half.
On this day, I baked 4 large potatoes, which gave me 8 large potato halves! If you are using large potatoes, remember that one potato per person may be too much. If you are making this recipe for 4 people, then you will only need 2 large potatoes. Or obviously, if you are only making this dish for 2 people, then only 1 large potato will do!
Since I made 8 total, it was a great way for me to meal prep. Afterall, I do have a couple of hungry teenagers who have endless stomaches!
After slicing each potato in half, lay them out for the next step, which is scooping out the flesh.
Scooping Out the Flesh
It’s scooping time! Be gentle but thorough—leave a small layer of potato inside the skin to maintain its structure.
Think of it like carving a pumpkin; you want to keep the shell intact for that satisfying casserole texture. Use a spoon that’s sturdy, but not too sharp to avoid piercing through. I like to use a soup spoon to scoop the insides of the potatoes. A soup spoon has the perfect curvature for scooping out the potato flesh! This step sets the stage for that creamy, dreamy filling we’re all craving!
Brushing Butter On the Potato Boats
After scooping out the flesh of each potato, you now have potato boats. Brush on melted butter on the insides of each potato boat.
If you are curious about those mysterious holes in mine, don’t worry, those are just the fork holes I poked earlier before baking them.
Crisping Up the Potato Boats
Place the potato boats back into the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up while you are making the filling. This took them approximately 15 minutes to get crispy in the oven.
Making the Mashed Potato Filling
While your potato boats are crisping in the oven it is time to make the filling with the potato flesh.
Think of the potato flesh as a blank canvas, primed for a masterpiece of flavors. This step is where you get creative! Blend in softened cream cheese, sour cream, or a splash of milk for creaminess. Don’t shy away from stirring in minced garlic, chives, or even caramelized onions for a rich depth of flavor.
Grated cheese is a must – sharp cheddar delivers a punch, but feel free to experiment with your favorites. This mix is the soul of your casserole, so make it flavorful, make it bold, and above all, make it your own! You are basically just making your favorite mashed potatoes.
Filling the Potato Boats
With a spoon, start scooping the mashed potato filling into each crispy potato boat. Fill each potato boat full to the rims, being generous with each boat!
Next, layer some breadcrumbs over top of the mashed potato mixture to add a delightful crunch! You can also use bacon bits instead! However, I used breadcrumbs on mine and it was delicious!
Topping with Cheese Sauce
While you certainly can use shredded cheddar cheese to top your potato boats, I used a creamy, dreamy cheese sauce on this particular day. I did not have any shredded cheese on this day, but this cheese sauce did a fantastic job! It is just the nacho cheese sauce you can find in a jar! I drizzled the cheese sauce over each potato.
Baking to Perfection
After layering your decadent mix into the casserole dish, it’s time for the grand finale — baking to perfection. Turn your oven down to a cozy 350 degrees. This gentle temperature allows all the flavors to blend beautifully without drying out your masterpiece.
Bake your potatoes uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top forms a golden-brown crust, signaling it’s ready.
This step isn’t just about heating; it’s about marrying flavors, and textures, and creating that irresistible cheesy crust. Watch it closely, though. We’re aiming for golden perfection, not charred memories!
You now have twice baked potatoes casserole! I say casserole because each large potato boat is basically a single serving casserole dish.
Garnishing for Presentation
Don’t underestimate the power of a good garnish! Just before serving, sprinkle your casserole with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or green onions, which is what I used.
This not only adds a pop of color, but also introduces a fresh flavor contrast to the creamy, rich potatoes. For a bit of extra indulgence, a light drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits can elevate the dish from great to unforgettable. Remember, we eat with our eyes first, so make it look as irresistible as it tastes!
I did not use sour cream, sadly. However, it was still delicious!
Serving Suggestions
Once your twice-baked potatoes casserole is golden and bubbly, it’s showtime!
- For a cozy family dinner, pair it with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness!
- Hosting a brunch? Slice it up next to eggs for a hearty start!
- It’s also the ultimate side for BBQ parties!
Honestly, this casserole is a versatile star, ready to elevate any meal. Just remember, a little serving goes a long way—this dish packs flavor and heartiness in every bite!
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? No problem! Your twice-baked potatoes casserole will stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Reheating is a breeze too – pop it in the oven until it’s warm throughout. For longer storage, freeze it.
This dish freezes well and can be a savior on busy days. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Now, you’ve got comfort food ready anytime!
Conclusion
And there you have it, the ultimate guide to creating a heavenly Twice Baked Potatoes Casserole that’s bound to impress at any gathering. Each step, from selecting the right potatoes to the final garnish, adds a layer of love and flavor to this comforting dish.
Remember, the best recipes are made with patience and passion. So, whip out your baking dish, and let’s make some magic happen. Here’s to hoping your casserole becomes the talk of the table!
Resources: Here are some helpful resources for further information.
- Loaded Twice Baked Potato Casserole – By Dinners, Dishes, and Desserts
- Twice Baked Potato Casserole – By The Recipe Critic
- Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe – By The Spruce Eats
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of potato besides russet for this recipe?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes are the traditional choice for making twice baked potato casserole, feel free to experiment with different types of potatoes to suit your preferences. Yukon Gold, red potatoes, or even sweet potatoes can be delicious alternatives that offer a slightly different flavor and texture to your dish. Keep in mind that each type of potato may require adjustments in cooking time or seasoning to achieve the desired result. For example, Yukon Gold potatoes have a buttery flavor and creamy texture, while sweet potatoes add a subtle sweetness to the dish. Ultimately, the choice of potato comes down to personal taste, so don’t be afraid to mix it up and customize your twice baked potato casserole recipe to make it uniquely yours!
2. Is this dish suitable for vegetarians or can it be easily adapted to be vegetarian-friendly?
Twice baked potatoes are definitely a dish that can be easily adapted to suit vegetarians! I made mine vegetarian! Traditionally, the filling of twice baked potatoes consists of mashed potato mixed with ingredients like cheese, sour cream, and bacon. However, for a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use spicy breadcrumbs and ensure any cheeses used are suitable for vegetarians (look out for rennet-free options). You can also get creative with vegetarian fillings such as sautéed vegetables, herbs, and different types of cheeses like cheddar or feta. The beauty of twice baked potatoes is that they are incredibly versatile and adaptable to suit different dietary preferences – so go ahead and make yourself a delicious veggie-friendly version to enjoy!
3. Can I freeze any leftovers of the twice baked potatoes casserole?
Absolutely, you can definitely freeze any leftovers of the twice baked potatoes casserole! To do so, simply allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container or resealable freezer bag. Make sure to label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it in the oven until warmed through. The texture may be slightly different after freezing, but overall, your delicious twice baked potato casserole should still taste just as amazing as when you first made it. So go ahead and save those leftovers for a quick and easy meal down the road!
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later?
Absolutely! Many dishes can be made ahead of time and reheated later without sacrificing taste or quality. In fact, some dishes even improve in flavor after sitting for a while. Remember to let the dish cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat it gently in the oven until heated through. With a little planning and patience, you can easily make your favorite dishes ahead of time and enjoy them whenever you please!
The Best Twice Baked Potatoes Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Cast iron pan or baking dish.
Ingredients
What You Will Need
- 2 tbsp of olive oil, more for lightly coating the potatoes.
- 2 tsp salt.
- ½ cup melted butter.
- 1 cup sour cream, for mixing into the filling and for topping.
- 1 tsp garlic powder.
- 1 tsp onion powder.
- 1 tsp chopped parsley.
- 2 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese.
- ½ cup heavy cream.
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or bacon bits.
- 2 to 3 chopped green onions, for garnish.
Instructions
Properly Baking the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. I preheated my cast iron Dutch oven as well since I will be baking my potatoes inside of it.
- Wash potatoes thoroughly and prick them with a fork to let steam escape.
- Rub cooking oil over each potato and sprinkle them with salt to start the flavor-building process.
- Bake for 1 hour or until potatoes are softened.
Slicing the Potatoes In Half
- Slice the potatoes in half length-wise.
Scooping Out the Flesh
- Gently scoop out the flesh of the potato leaving a small layer on the skins to create hollow potato boats.
Brushing Butter On the Potato Boats
- Brush on melted butter on the insides of each potato boat.
Crisping Up the Potato Boats
- Place the potato boats back into the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up while you are making the filling.
- This took them approximately 15 minutes to get crispy in the oven.
Making the Mashed Potato Filling
- While your potato boats are crisping in the oven it is time to make the filling with the potato flesh.
- Blend in softened cream cheese, sour cream, or a splash of milk for creaminess.
- Stir in grated cheddar cheese, minced garlic, chives, or even caramelized onions for a rich depth of flavor.
Filling the Potato Boats
- With a spoon, start scooping the mashed potato filling into each crispy potato boat.
- Fill each potato boat full to the rims, being generous with each boat!
- Add a layer of breadcrumbs or bacon bits on top of the mashed potatoes.
Topping with Cheese Sauce
- Top with cheese sauce or shredded cheese of your choice.
Baking to Perfection
- Turn your oven down to a cozy 350 degrees. This gentle temperature allows all the flavors to blend beautifully without drying out your masterpiece.
- Bake your potatoes uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top forms a golden-brown crust, signaling it's ready.
- You now have twice baked potatoes casserole! I say casserole because each large potato boat is basically a single serving casserole dish.
Garnishing for Presentation
- Just before serving, sprinkle your casserole with freshly chopped herbs like parsley or green onions.
- For a bit of extra indulgence, a light drizzle of sour cream or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits can elevate the dish from great to unforgettable. Enjoy!
Summary
I hope I have inspired you to make these twice baked potatoes casserole to enjoy and share with your friends and family.
If you were encouraged by this post, I invite you to check out my FREE Printables Page for fun free printables, planners, and charts.
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Here are some more of my cast iron cooking inspiration posts to check out!
The Best Old-Fashioned Homemade Brownies: A Cast Iron Skillet Recipe!
How to Make Dutch Oven Lasagna
How to Make Black Bean Burgers from the Garden!
Blessings,
The Off Grid Barefoot Girl
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