If you are searching for a comforting dish that combines creamy textures with cheesy goodness, look no further than this Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe. This recipe transforms simple mashed potatoes into an irresistible casserole packed with rich flavors, subtle hints of garlic, and a golden cheese crust that will captivate everyone at your dinner table. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a family weeknight, this casserole is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm, delicious hug in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is the first step toward creating a deeply flavorful and creamy casserole. Each component plays a critical role, from the russet potatoes providing a fluffy base, to the sour cream adding tang and silkiness, and the cheese bringing that perfect, melty topping that adds both texture and color.
- Russet potatoes (3 to 4 pounds): The ideal potato for a fluffy, creamy mash that holds up well in casserole form.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): Adds rich flavor and silky smoothness to the potatoes.
- Whole milk, warmed (1/2 cup): Moistens the mash while keeping it creamy without heaviness.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): Gives a lovely tang and extra creaminess that elevates the texture.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of the potatoes.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of subtle heat to balance the creaminess.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves, optional): Infuses a gentle savory note that complements the richness perfectly.
- Large egg (1, optional): Helps bind the casserole, giving it a firmer texture when baked.
- Shredded cheese (1 cup, divided, optional): Melts to create a luscious golden topping and pockets of gooey delight inside.
- Chopped chives or green onions (2 tablespoons, optional): Offers a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor as a garnish.
How to Make Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling the russet potatoes and chopping them into even-sized chunks to ensure they cook uniformly. Place them in a pot of cold salted water and bring to a boil. Cooking the potatoes until fork-tender usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes—this ensures they’ll mash smoothly into a creamy base for your casserole.
Step 2: Drain and Dry
Once cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly. Return them to the warm pot over low heat for a minute or two to evaporate any excess moisture. Removing this extra water is key to achieving that luxuriously creamy texture without it becoming watery.
Step 3: Mash to Perfection
Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until perfectly smooth. This step sets the foundation for the luscious texture that defines this Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe, giving you a silky base that catches all the flavors in the mix.
Step 4: Combine the Creamy Ingredients
Mix in butter, warmed whole milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Stir everything together gently but thoroughly until you achieve a rich, creamy consistency that promises every spoonful to be decadent.
Step 5: Add Egg for Binding (Optional)
If you’re using an egg, stir it in quickly at this stage to help bind the mixture before baking. This ingredient adds a firm yet tender structure to the casserole, making it easier to serve and hold its shape.
Step 6: Fold in Flavors
Gently fold in minced garlic, half of the shredded cheese, and fresh herbs if you like. These additions build layers of aroma and taste that make this casserole truly unforgettable, balancing creamy richness with bursts of savory excitement.
Step 7: Prepare and Transfer
Butter a casserole baking dish well to prevent sticking. Transfer the mashed potato mixture to the dish, smoothing the surface evenly. You can get creative here by swirling or creating patterns on the top—it adds a gorgeous presentation touch before the cheese topping goes on.
Step 8: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly across the top. This cheesy layer will melt into a perfect golden crust during baking, lending an irresistible crunchy contrast to the creamy potatoes beneath.
Step 9: Bake Until Golden
Bake your casserole in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes. The cheese topping should turn a beautiful golden brown, bubbling gently and smelling absolutely amazing—a clear sign that your casserole is ready.
Step 10: Rest and Garnish
Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking to let everything set nicely. Garnish with chopped chives or a spritz of black pepper for an inviting final touch before serving this delightful dish.
How to Serve Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a sprinkle of fresh chives or finely sliced green onions on top brightens the casserole visually and adds a gentle oniony zest. A dash of black pepper or even a few crispy bacon bits can elevate the flavors and give wonderful texture contrast.
Side Dishes
This mashed potato casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted chicken or turkey, sautéed green beans, and a crisp garden salad. It also complements hearty meatloaf or grilled sausages perfectly, balancing heavier dishes with its creamy comfort.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve this casserole in individual ramekins, topped with colorful herbs and even a drizzle of browned butter. You can also layer it with caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms for an added depth of flavor that surprises and delights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Before reheating, allow it to come to room temperature for even heating and to preserve its creamy texture.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. To prevent freezer burn, wrap tightly with plastic wrap before sealing the container.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, which helps maintain the casserole’s creamy texture and crispy cheese topping. You can cover it with foil halfway through baking to avoid over-browning.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without cheese?
Absolutely! While cheese adds a lovely richness and golden crust, the casserole is delicious on its own with just butter, sour cream, and your seasonings. Feel free to skip it if dairy or preferences call for it.
Is it necessary to add an egg?
The egg helps the casserole hold its shape, especially when serving in neat slices, but it is optional. If you prefer a looser, softer texture, you can omit the egg without losing the creamy flavor.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Russet potatoes are best for their starch content and fluffiness, but you can experiment with Yukon Golds for a buttery richness. Keep in mind the texture will be slightly different but still tasty.
How can I make the casserole more flavorful?
Adding roasted garlic, sautéed onions, or mixing in herbs like thyme or rosemary can add fantastic depth. Incorporating crispy bacon or even a little horseradish can also spice things up deliciously.
What can I serve with this casserole for a vegetarian meal?
Pair it with roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, a hearty lentil stew, or a fresh vegetable salad for a complete vegetarian-friendly dinner that feels comforting and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe enough for anyone wanting to elevate simple mashed potatoes into a dish that steals the show. Its perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors makes it a true favorite to share with friends and family. Once you try it, I bet it will become one of your go-to comfort food classics too!
Print
Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole combines creamy mashed potatoes with butter, sour cream, and cheese, baked to golden perfection. It’s a comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday meals, featuring optional garlic and fresh herbs for added flavor.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Dairy
- 3 to 4 pounds Russet potatoes
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 large egg (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheese, divided (optional)
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Peel and chop the Russet potatoes into even chunks to ensure they cook uniformly. Place them in a pot of cold salted water and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Drain and dry: Thoroughly drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Heat them gently on low to remove any excess moisture, which helps achieve a better mash consistency.
- Mash the potatoes: Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth without lumps for a creamy texture.
- Add creamy ingredients: Mix in the butter, warmed milk, sour cream, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture becomes creamy and well blended.
- Incorporate egg if using: Quickly stir in the egg to help with binding and add richness to the casserole if you choose to include it.
- Fold in flavorings: Gently fold in the minced garlic, half of the shredded cheese, and chopped herbs such as chives or green onions, if desired, to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the mashed potato mixture into a buttered baking dish. Smooth the top and create decorative swirls with the back of a spoon or spatula for an appealing look.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to create a golden cheesy crust during baking.
- Bake the casserole: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top turns golden brown and bubbly.
- Rest and garnish: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes after baking. Garnish with additional chopped chives or a sprinkle of black pepper before serving for extra flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For extra flavor, roast the garlic before adding it to the mash.
- Use low-fat sour cream or milk for a lighter version.
- Russet potatoes are preferred for their fluffiness, but Yukon Gold can also be used.
- Make sure to dry the potatoes well after draining to avoid watery casserole.
- This dish can be prepared a day ahead and reheated before serving.
