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Crispy Loaded Twice-Baked Potato Casserole Recipe Perfect for Family Dinners

crispy loaded twice-baked potato casserole - featured image

A comforting casserole featuring creamy twice-baked potatoes blended with sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and green onions, topped with a golden crunchy crust. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any cozy gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 large russet potatoes (about 2 pounds / 900 grams), scrubbed and dry
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded (about 4 ounces / 115 grams)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml)
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup green onions, thinly sliced (about 25 grams)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened (28 grams)
  • 1/4 cup whole milk (60 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes well, then prick each one several times with a fork. Place them directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-50 minutes until tender when pierced with a knife.
  2. While potatoes bake, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Drain on paper towels and crumble once cool. Set aside.
  3. Once potatoes are cool enough to handle (about 15 minutes), cut each in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl, leaving about a 1/4-inch shell to hold the shape.
  4. Mash the potato flesh with butter, sour cream, and milk until creamy but still a bit textured. Stir in garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Fold in 3/4 of the shredded sharp cheddar cheese, half the green onions, and most of the bacon (reserve some for topping).
  5. Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins or directly into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish for a more casual presentation. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar, bacon, and green onions on top.
  6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and crisp. Keep an eye on it after 15 minutes to avoid burning—if it browns too fast, loosely tent with foil.
  7. Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispy bits, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end but watch carefully to prevent charring. Use sharp cheddar for best flavor. Avoid overmixing potatoes to prevent gluey texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat covered in the oven, uncovering at the end to crisp the top.

Nutrition

Keywords: twice-baked potatoes, casserole, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, family dinner, comfort food, cheesy potatoes