Paula Deen's twice Baked Potato Casserole

INGREDIENTS

medium baking potatoes, about 4 pounds

1 8 ounce package

cream cheese, at room temperature

1/2 cup

butter, softened

1 pint

sour cream

2 cups

( ½ pound) shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided use)

2 cloves

garlic, minced

1 1/2 tsp

salt

1/2 tsp

pepper

1/4 cup

chopped chives, for garnish

slices bacon, cooked crisp, drained and crumbled, for garnish