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Cozy Twice Baked Potato Casserole with Bacon and Chives

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A comforting and easy twice baked potato casserole featuring crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh chives. Perfect for family meals and busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds russet potatoes
  • 8 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup milk (whole or 2%)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Wash and dry the russet potatoes. Pierce each potato several times with a fork to let steam escape while baking.
  3. Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for about 45-50 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  4. While potatoes bake, chop bacon into small pieces and fry in a skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
  5. Once potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise. Scoop out the fluffy insides into a large bowl, leaving a thin border of potato to help the casserole hold its shape.
  6. Add butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the potato bowl. Mash or beat with a hand mixer until creamy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and most of the crispy bacon pieces (reserve some for topping). Mix gently but thoroughly.
  8. Transfer the potato mixture into your greased casserole dish (9×13 inches). Spread evenly, pressing lightly to create a smooth surface.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon over the top. Scatter the chopped chives on top as well.
  10. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden and edges are slightly crisp.
  11. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Do not overmash potatoes to avoid gummy texture. Use room temperature dairy for smooth blending. Tent casserole with foil if browning too fast. Let casserole rest before serving for better texture. For crispier topping, broil last 2-3 minutes watching closely.

Nutrition

Keywords: twice baked potato casserole, bacon, chives, cheesy potato casserole, family meal, easy casserole, comfort food

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/cozy-twice-baked-potato-casserole-with-bacon-and-chives-recipe-easy-and-perfect-for-family-meals/