This Twice Baked Potato Casserole recipe, inspired by The Pioneer Woman, takes the classic comfort of twice baked potatoes and transforms it into an easy-to-serve casserole. Loaded with creamy mashed potatoes, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and flavorful potato skins, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient as it can be made ahead of time and is freezer-friendly, making it perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner.
If you’re a fan of Pioneer Woman Recipes, you’re in for a treat! This twice baked potato casserole captures Ree Drummond’s signature style of hearty, flavorful, and approachable cooking. It’s a fantastic alternative to individual twice baked potatoes, offering all the deliciousness with less fuss, especially when you’re feeding a larger group.
A close up image of a wooden spoon filled twice baked potato casserole in a casserole dish.
What makes this Pioneer Woman twice baked potato casserole so special? It’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures. The creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes are enriched with butter and sour cream, while the crispy bacon and potato skins add a delightful savory crunch. Making it in casserole form simplifies the process, allowing you to prepare it in advance and even freeze leftovers for future enjoyment. This recipe is truly everything you need in a comforting side dish, especially when you need something make-ahead and delicious.
Key Ingredients for Pioneer Woman’s Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to create this amazing twice baked potato casserole:
- Russet Potatoes: The foundation of our casserole. Russets are starchy potatoes that yield the fluffiest mashed potatoes, essential for a creamy and satisfying casserole. Yukon Golds are also a good alternative. Avoid waxy potatoes like red potatoes, as they can become gluey when mashed.
- Canola Oil: Used to rub the potatoes before baking, ensuring a crispy skin and preventing them from drying out.
- Bacon: Because everything is better with bacon! It adds a smoky, salty flavor and a delightful crispy texture to the casserole.
- Salted Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor to the mashed potatoes, making them extra decadent.
- Sour Cream: Sour cream contributes to the creamy texture and adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
- Whole Milk: Milk helps to create a smooth and creamy consistency in the mashed potatoes.
- Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese is the classic choice for twice baked potatoes, providing a bold and cheesy flavor. Using a block of cheese and grating it yourself is recommended for the best melting and flavor.
- Seasoned Salt, Salt, and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the overall flavor of the casserole. Seasoned salt adds a little extra depth.
- Green Onions: For garnish, adding a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color just before serving.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Twice Baked Potato Casserole
Follow these simple steps to create this delicious Pioneer Woman twice baked potato casserole:
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Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the russet potatoes clean. Ensure they are completely dry, then rub them generously with canola oil.
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Bake the Potatoes: Place the oiled potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 40 minutes, or until they are easily pierced with a fork.
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Cook the Bacon: While the potatoes are baking, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Set aside.
A baking tray with Russet potatoes next to a bowl of butter and sour cream for making twice baked potato casserole.
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Cool and Prep Potatoes: Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly until you can handle them comfortably. Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C).
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Mash the Potatoes: Leave the skins on two of the potatoes for added texture and flavor. Peel the remaining potatoes and discard the skins (or save them for another use, like potato skins!). Cut all the potatoes into chunks and place them in a large mixing bowl.
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Combine Ingredients: Crumble half of the cooked bacon and add it to the bowl with the potatoes. Add the softened butter, sour cream, whole milk, cheddar cheese, seasoned salt, salt, and pepper.
Uncooked bacon in a pan next to a bowl of cooked and sliced russet potatoes.
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Mash Until Creamy: Using a potato masher or an electric mixer, mash the potatoes and ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to overmix if using an electric mixer, as this can make the potatoes gluey.
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Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the mashed potato mixture to a lightly greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
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Top and Bake: Sprinkle the remaining crumbled bacon and additional shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy this ultimate comfort food side dish!
A bowl of mashed potatoes next to a casserole dish filled with twice baked potato casserole.
Make-Ahead, Crock Pot, and Freezing Instructions
This twice baked potato casserole is incredibly versatile and convenient. Here are instructions for make-ahead preparation, crock pot cooking, and freezing leftovers:
Make-Ahead Method:
- You can assemble the entire casserole up to two days in advance. Follow the recipe instructions up to step 8 (assembling the casserole in the baking dish). Cover the unbaked casserole tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
- When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the covered casserole for 10-15 minutes, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
Crock Pot Method:
- For a hands-off cooking option, you can use a crock pot. Assemble the casserole in a crock pot instead of a baking dish.
- Cook on low heat for 2 hours or on high heat for 1 hour, or until heated through and the cheese is melted. Switch to the “warm” setting to keep it warm until serving. Garnish with green onions just before serving.
- If reheating a cold casserole in the crock pot, add an extra 1-2 hours of heating time.
Freezing and Reheating:
- Freezing: This casserole freezes beautifully! The butter, sour cream, and whole milk help maintain a creamy texture after freezing and reheating. Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers or bags. For individual servings, you can freeze foil packets or freeze scoops on a plate before transferring to a freezer bag to prevent sticking. Use within three months for best quality.
- Reheating from Frozen:
- Oven: Wrap frozen portions in foil or place in an oven-safe dish with a cover. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
- Microwave: Microwave frozen portions on a microwave-safe plate at half power for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
A wooden spoon scooping out twice baked potato casserole topped with melted cheese, bacon, and green onions.
Tips for the Best Twice Baked Potato Casserole
- Use Starchy Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for mashed potatoes due to their high starch content, resulting in a light and fluffy texture.
- Warm Ingredients: Ensure your butter, sour cream, and milk are at room temperature before mixing with the potatoes. This helps them incorporate smoothly and prevents lumps.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing mashed potatoes, especially with an electric mixer, can release too much starch and make them gluey. Mix just until combined and creamy.
- Customize Your Cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of cheeses for different flavor profiles.
- Add Extra Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Consider adding chives, crumbled potato chips, or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
This Pioneer Woman twice baked potato casserole is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses. It’s particularly delicious with:
- Roasted Chicken or Turkey: Perfect for Sunday dinner or holiday meals.
- Beef or Pork Tenderloin: A comforting and flavorful accompaniment.
- Meatloaf: Another classic comfort food pairing, especially if you’re making Pioneer Woman’s meatloaf!
- Grilled Steaks or Burgers: Elevate your barbecue with this indulgent side.
Conclusion
The Pioneer Woman’s Twice Baked Potato Casserole is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves comfort food and easy entertaining. With its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy bacon, it’s a guaranteed hit at any gathering. Whether you’re making it for a holiday feast, a potluck, or a simple family dinner, this make-ahead and freezer-friendly casserole will become a new favorite. Give this delightful recipe a try and experience the magic of twice baked potatoes in casserole form!
