Name: Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe: Creamy and Comforting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes (peeled, cubed); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed); 1 tsp kosher salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 tbsp butter (melted); Optional: Chopped chives (parsley); Suggested Pairings: Roasted vegetables (white wine)

Introduction

Table of Contents

Mashed Potato Casserole is a classic side dish or main, perfect for family dinners, holidays, or gatherings. This creamy, cheesy dish, featuring smooth mashed potatoes topped with a golden, crunchy layer, delivers a comforting, rich flavor in every bite. Presented in a white ceramic baking dish, garnished with chopped chives or parsley, this Mashed Potato Casserole offers a vibrant, appetizing aesthetic that elevates any table. This recipe provides a traditional version, adaptable for dietary preferences, ideal for home cooks seeking a crowd-pleasing dish that brings warm, homey charm to any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potato Casserole:

3 lbs Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup whole milk, warmed
1 tsp kosher salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tbsp butter, melted (for topping)

For Serving:

Optional: Chopped chives or parsley
Suggested Accompaniments: Roasted vegetables, grilled chicken
Suggested Pairings: White wine, sparkling water
Suggested Aesthetic: Serve in a white ceramic baking dish
Suggested Equipment: Large pot, potato masher or ricer, mixing bowl, 9×13-inch baking dish, measuring cups/spoons, knife, cutting board

Step-by-Step Process

Cook Potatoes: Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain well.
Mash Potatoes: Return potatoes to the pot or a mixing bowl. Add softened butter, sour cream, warm milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and 1 cup of cheddar cheese. Mash with a potato masher or ricer until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper to ensure a balanced flavor.
Assemble Casserole: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread mashed potatoes evenly in a greased 9×13-inch white ceramic baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the top.
Add Topping: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the cheese layer.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning.
Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley. Serve hot in the white ceramic baking dish with roasted vegetables, grilled chicken, white wine, or sparkling water.

Tips for Better Mashed Potato Casserole

Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture or Russet for a fluffier result.
Taste the mashed potatoes before baking to balance creamy, savory flavors; adjust with salt or garlic powder.
Warm the milk before adding to prevent lumps and ensure smooth mashing.
Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy topping; regular breadcrumbs work but are less crisp.
Use a white ceramic baking dish for a vibrant presentation, highlighting the golden topping and green garnish.
Make ahead: Prepare mashed potatoes and assemble the casserole up to 1 day in advance; refrigerate, then bake fresh.
For extra richness, add 1/4 cup cream cheese to the mash.
Enhance aesthetic: Present in a white ceramic baking dish with chives or parsley for a fresh, inviting look.

Variations and Customization

Gluten-Free Mashed Potato Casserole: Use gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free crackers for the topping.
Vegan Mashed Potato Casserole: Replace butter with vegan butter, sour cream with vegan sour cream, milk with plant-based milk, and cheeses with vegan alternatives.
Low-Sodium Mashed Potato Casserole: Reduce salt to 1/2 tsp and use low-sodium cheeses.
Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole: Add 1/2 cup cooked, crumbled bacon and 1/4 cup chopped scallions to the mash.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole: Increase cheddar to 2 cups and add 1/2 cup mozzarella.
Herb-Forward Mashed Potato Casserole: Mix in 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary or thyme.
Spicy Mashed Potato Casserole: Add 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tbsp diced jalapeños to the mash.
Low-Carb Mashed Potato Casserole: Substitute potatoes with mashed cauliflower; reduce milk to 1/4 cup.

Storage and Serving Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave until warm.
Freeze unbaked or baked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Serve hot for the best creamy texture and flavor.
Use as a side dish for holiday feasts or a main with protein.
Pair with white wine or sparkling water to complement the rich, cheesy flavor.
Present in a white ceramic baking dish with vibrant garnishes for an appetizing, comforting charm.

Nutritional Information

Based on 8 servings:

Calories: 350 kcal
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 55mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 32g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 3g
Protein: 12g
Vitamin A: 15% Daily Value
Vitamin C: 25% Daily Value
Calcium: 20% Daily Value
Iron: 8% Daily Value

Note: Values vary by ingredient brands and substitutions (low-sodium options reduce sodium to ~400mg). High in fat and carbs; enjoy in moderation. Pair with vegetables for balance.

Conclusion

This Mashed Potato Casserole recipe offers a creamy, comforting side dish or main, perfect for any occasion, transforming simple ingredients into a classic favorite. Its straightforward preparation and vibrant presentation make it a crowd-pleaser. The cheesy topping and smooth potatoes delight with every bite. It’s sure to be a cherished recipe, loved for its comforting appeal.