Description

Twice-Baked Mashed Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food — creamy, fluffy, and perfectly crispy on top. This dish transforms humble mashed potatoes into a decadent side that pairs beautifully with any meal. Whether for holidays, a family dinner, or a cozy night in, twice-baked potatoes are a crowd-pleasing favorite for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Classic Twice-Baked Mashed Potatoes:

4 large russet potatoes
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, melted
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup milk (or more for desired consistency)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional for garnish)

Italian Cauliflower Casserole:

1 head of cauliflower
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup mozzarella cheese

Sausage Cauliflower Casserole:

1 lb sausage (your choice)
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1/2 cup shredded cheese

Instructions

How to Make Twice-Baked Mashed Potatoes:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the potatoes. Poke them with a fork, place them directly on the oven rack, and bake for 45–60 minutes until tender.
Let the potatoes cool slightly. Cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh into a large bowl, being careful not to break the skin. Mash until smooth.
Add sour cream, cream cheese, butter, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy. If too thick, add milk to reach desired consistency.
Scoop the mashed mixture back into the potato skins, packing tightly.
Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes until the tops are golden and crispy.
Garnish with green onions or extra cheese. Serve hot.

For Italian Cauliflower Casserole:

Steam or roast cauliflower until tender. Mash and mix into the mashed potato mixture.
Season with Italian seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
Top with mozzarella cheese and bake for the second time.

For Sausage Cauliflower Casserole:

Cook sausage in a skillet, crumble, and drain excess grease.
Mix cooked sausage into the mashed potato mixture.
Top with shredded cheese and bake.

Notes

Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the twice-baked potatoes and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days before baking.
Flavor Variations: Add bacon bits, herbs, or sautéed onions to your mashed potato mixture for extra flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with more vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for a meat-free twist.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain the crispy top.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 potato half
Calories: 300
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Twice-Baked Mashed Potatoes, Mashed Potato Casserole, Comfort Food, Side Dish, Baked Potatoes