Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a rich, savory dish that brings together the best of creamy, cheesy goodness with the satisfying crunch of smoked bacon and the fresh bite of scallions. This American classic is the perfect side dish for any meal, whether it’s a family dinner or a festive gathering. With its delightful blend of flavors and textures, this casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to prepare and can be finished in the oven or a crockpot, making it versatile for any occasion.
Ingredients :
- 6 medium to large russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ¾ cup sour cream
- ½ cup whole or 2% milk
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 8 slices smoked bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
- 4 green onions, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s ready for the potatoes once they’re prepared.
- Prepare the Potatoes: Wash and dry the potatoes thoroughly. Use a fork to prick each potato several times, which helps steam escape during baking. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
- Cool and Peel: Once the potatoes are baked, immediately plunge them into ice-cold water. This will cool them quickly and make the skins easier to peel off using your fingers.
- Cube the Potatoes: Cut the peeled potatoes into large cubes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
- Mash and Mix: Add the butter, sour cream, milk, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, ½ cup of cheddar cheese, ½ cup of Monterey Jack cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the chopped green onions to the bowl. Use a handheld potato masher to mash the potatoes and mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Lightly spray a 2-quart baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Spoon the mashed potato mixture into the dish and spread it evenly. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, crumbled bacon, and chopped green onions.
- Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
- Serving Tips: This casserole pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For a twist, try adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives just before serving.
Notes
- Potato Selection: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they have a starchy texture that becomes wonderfully fluffy when baked.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar and Monterey Jack are recommended, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Pepper Jack, Colby Jack, Gouda, or Provolone to suit your taste.
- Bacon Quality: Opt for high-quality smoked bacon for the best flavor. Cooking it crispy ensures it adds the perfect crunch to your casserole.
- Leftover Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave at a reduced power setting or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, covered, until warmed through.
Nutrition Information :
- Calories: 303 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Protein: 11g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 51mg
- Sodium: 383mg
- Potassium: 641mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Vitamin A: 519 IU
- Vitamin C: 8mg
- Calcium: 220mg
- Iron: 1mg
Conclusion :
Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a delicious and hearty side dish that combines the creamy texture of mashed potatoes with the savory flavors of cheese and bacon. It’s easy to make and versatile enough to be a staple at any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking to elevate your dinner, this casserole is sure to impress. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying comfort of this classic dish, perfect for any occasion.
Source of the picture : smalltownwoman
