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Crispy Twice Baked Potato Casserole Recipe Easy Loaded Toppings Guide

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A comforting casserole featuring creamy mashed baked potatoes mixed with sour cream, cream cheese, cheddar, and crispy bacon, baked again until golden and crispy on top. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks, this dish balances creamy and crunchy textures with loaded toppings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 pounds), scrubbed and baked
  • 1 cup sour cream (full-fat preferred)
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (reserve ½ cup for topping)
  • ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped (turkey bacon works too)
  • 3 green onions, thinly sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Optional: ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt for topping

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Pierce each potato several times with a fork and place directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes until tender. Let cool about 10 minutes.
  2. Cut potatoes in half lengthwise and scoop out flesh into a large bowl, leaving skins behind. Add sour cream, cream cheese, melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mash until mostly smooth with some lumps.
  3. Fold in 1 cup shredded cheddar, chopped bacon, and most green onions, reserving some for garnish. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  4. Spread potato mixture evenly into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle remaining ½ cup cheddar and extra bacon on top.
  5. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly, golden, and crispy. Optionally broil 2-3 minutes for extra crunch, watching carefully.
  6. Remove from oven, garnish with remaining green onions and dollops of sour cream or Greek yogurt if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

If potatoes seem dry, add a splash of milk or extra sour cream while mashing. Use full-fat dairy for best creaminess. Broil at the end for extra crispiness but watch carefully to avoid burning. Prepare potato mixture a day ahead and refrigerate; bring to room temperature before baking. Reheat leftovers in oven or toaster oven to maintain crisp topping. Substitute dairy-free products for a dairy-free version.

Nutrition

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