Pioneer Women Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe
Are you looking for the ultimate comfort food? The Pioneer Women Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish takes everything you love about loaded baked potatoes and turns it into a crowd-pleasing bake.
Ingredients
- 8 large Russet potatoes scrubbed clean.
- 1/2 cup salted butter softened.
- 1 cup sour cream.
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded.
- 1 pound bacon cooked until crispy and crumbled.
- 3 green onions thinly sliced.
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder.
Instructions
Bake the Potatoes
- Rub the clean potatoes with a little oil and salt. Bake them at 400°F for about one hour. They should be very tender when pierced with a fork.
Scoop and Mash
- Let the potatoes cool slightly so you can handle them. Cut them in half and scoop the insides into a large bowl. Discard the skins or save them for snacks.
Mix the Base
- Add the softened butter, sour cream, and milk to the warm potatoes. Use a masher or mixer to combine everything. Aim for a smooth and fluffy texture.
Add the Flavor
- Stir in the salt, black pepper and garlic powder. Add half of the shredded cheese and half of the crispy bacon bits. Mix gently until well combined.
Assemble the Casserole
- Grease your 9x13 baking dish with butter or spray. Spread the potato mixture evenly into the dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top layer.
Add the Toppings
- Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the potatoes. Top the cheese with the rest of the crumbled bacon. This creates a beautiful and tasty crust.
Final Bake
- Place the dish in the oven at 350°F for 20 minutes. The cheese should be bubbly and melted. The edges will look slightly golden and delicious.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove the casserole from the oven carefully. Sprinkle the fresh green onions over the top for color. Serve it warm while the cheese is still stretchy.
Notes
- Extra Creamy: Use whipped cream cheese instead of some of the sour cream.
- Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Potato Choice: Always use Russet potatoes for the best fluffy texture.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the bacon and add roasted broccoli or smoked paprika.
- Cheat Code: Use leftover mashed potatoes to save time on busy nights.
- Texture Tip: Do not over-mix the potatoes or they might become gummy.