Few dishes can rival the cozy, soul-soothing charm of a mashed potato casserole. This hearty side dish is a celebration of creamy potatoes, rich toppings, and baked perfection—a true crowd-pleaser for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any occasion that calls for comfort food. Whether you're hosting a party or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish never fails to win hearts
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What makes mashed potato casserole so special? It's the ideal blend of a creamy, buttery base topped with gooey cheese, crispy bits of bacon, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it to suit your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Let's get cooking!
Ingredients
For the ultimate mashed potato casserole, you’ll need:
For the mashed potatoes:
- 3 lbs (about 6 large) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk (add more as needed for consistency)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to create a casserole that's creamy, cheesy, and downright irresistible:
Step 1 – Prep and Cook the Potatoes
Start by boiling the peeled and chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Cook them over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender and easy to mash. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
Step 2 – Mash It Like a Pro
Mash the hot potatoes until smooth and lump-free. You can use a potato masher or a hand mixer, depending on your preference. Once mashed, stir in the butter, sour cream, and milk. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined. Fold in the 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 3 – Prepare the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 4 – Add the Toppings
Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of cheddar cheese and the Parmesan cheese over the potatoes. Add the crumbled bacon on top for that perfect salty crunch.
Step 5 – Bake to Perfection
Bake the casserole uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For extra golden goodness, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 6 – Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, flavorful finish. Serve hot, and watch your guests dig in with delight!
Customization Ideas
What makes this mashed potato casserole so delightful is its flexibility. Here are a few ways to make it your own:
- Add veggies: Stir in cooked broccoli, caramelized onions, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
- Go bold with cheese: Swap out cheddar for sharp white cheddar, Gruyere, or Monterey Jack. You can even mix and match cheeses.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of paprika or a handful of diced jalapeños to give the dish a kick.
Tips for Serving
- This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken, turkey, or beef. It’s also excellent alongside a crisp green salad.
- Leftovers? Lucky you! Reheat the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or scoop out portions and warm them in the microwave.
A Dish They'll Remember
Mashed potato casserole isn’t just a side dish—it’s a comforting hug in every bite. Whether enjoyed during a holiday gathering or as a midweek indulgence, this recipe proves that simple ingredients can create magic. Try it out, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new staple in your mealtime rotation!
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