1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake Potatoes:
- Wash and scrub the potatoes. Pierce them with a fork a few times.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Allow the potatoes to cool slightly.
3. Prepare Casserole:
- Cut the baked potatoes in half and scoop out the insides into a large mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer of potato on the skin.
- Mash the potato insides with a fork or potato masher.
- Add the softened butter, sour cream, half of the crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Assemble and Bake:
- Transfer the mashed potato mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Top the casserole with the remaining crumbled bacon and additional shredded cheese if desired.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
5. Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and extra bacon, if desired.
- Serve the Twice Baked Potato Casserole hot and enjoy!
This casserole captures all the flavors of loaded baked potatoes and is perfect as a side dish for gatherings or as a comforting addition to any meal. Customize it with your favorite toppings and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!