Mashed Potato Casserole

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There are comfort food recipes, and then there is mashed potato casserole. This dish is the culinary equivalent of a warm hug, with its layers of creamy mashed potatoes, melted cheese, and crispy golden topping. Whether you’re feeding a holiday crowd or just looking for a cozy side dish to complete a weeknight meal, this one always delivers.

It’s rich without being too heavy, and endlessly customizable with mix-ins like garlic, sour cream, or bacon crumbles. The best part? You can make it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready, which makes it a hero dish for busy days and special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Casserole

Mashed potato casserole takes everything you love about classic mashed potatoes and levels it up. It’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting, with a baked finish that adds a slight crisp to the top. It’s also incredibly versatile. You can make it indulgent or keep it lighter, dress it up for guests or serve it simple for a family dinner. Leftovers reheat like a dream, making it a smart make-ahead dish.

What Kind of Potatoes Are Best for Mashed Potato Casserole?

The texture of your casserole starts with the right potatoes. Yukon Golds are a top choice for their naturally buttery flavor and smooth texture. Russets are another solid pick, especially if you prefer a fluffier mash. The key is to avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerlings, which can get gluey when mashed.

Ingredients for the Mashed Potato Casserole

The ingredients in this dish are simple, but each one plays an important role in creating that signature creamy texture and crave-worthy flavor.

• Yukon Gold potatoes
• Butter
• Sour cream
• Cream cheese
• Milk
• Salt
• Pepper
• Cheddar cheese
• Green onions
• Breadcrumbs or crushed crackers (for topping)

You’ll want a balance of dairy ingredients for the richness, and toppings to add crunch and flavor contrast. If you’re feeling adventurous, bacon bits or caramelized onions can give the casserole a savory upgrade.

How To Make the Mashed Potato Casserole

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Peel and chop your Yukon Gold potatoes, then boil them in salted water until fork-tender. This usually takes about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Mash and Mix

Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, sour cream, cream cheese, and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra creamy result, use a hand mixer.

Step 3: Assemble in a Casserole Dish

Transfer the mashed mixture into a greased baking dish. Spread evenly and top with a generous sprinkle of cheddar cheese, green onions, and breadcrumbs or crushed crackers.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. You can garnish with more green onions or a little parsley for a fresh finish.

How to Serve and Store Mashed Potato Casserole

This mashed potato casserole is ideal for potlucks, holidays, or any meal where you want a comforting, satisfying side. It feeds about 6 to 8 people as a side dish. You can easily double it for larger crowds.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. If you want to freeze it, assemble everything without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

What to Serve With Mashed Potato Casserole?

Roast Chicken

Pair this casserole with juicy roasted chicken for a classic and hearty dinner.

BBQ Meatloaf

The creamy texture of the potatoes complements the smoky-sweet glaze of BBQ meatloaf beautifully.

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

A bold main dish like garlic butter steak bites gets balanced out with this mellow, rich casserole.

Green Beans Almondine

Add a bright and crisp vegetable side to lighten the meal and add color to the plate.

Grilled Salmon

It might surprise you, but the richness of this potato dish works well alongside a flaky, grilled salmon fillet.

Creamed Spinach

Double down on the comfort by pairing with another creamy side.

Cranberry Sauce

Especially around the holidays, the tartness of cranberry sauce is a great contrast.

Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Earthy, slightly tangy sprouts are perfect for cutting through the richness of the casserole.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this mashed potato casserole, you’ll probably enjoy these other cozy baked dishes:

• Low Carb Chicken Casserole for a lighter, protein-packed meal.
• Amish Sunday Savior Casserole if you’re craving something rustic and satisfying.
• Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake when you want a hands-off dinner that’s full of flavor.
• Gooey Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole for a sweet twist on your brunch table.
• Deviled Egg Pasta Salad that’s creamy, tangy, and great for gatherings.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest comfort food board so you can come back to it whenever you’re craving something hearty and homey.

Have you tried customizing your mashed potato casserole? Let me know what toppings or add-ins you used. Was it extra cheese, crispy onions, or something unique?

Explore beautifully curated comfort food recipes on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next cozy kitchen favorite.

Conclusion

Mashed potato casserole is that rare kind of dish that pleases everyone. It’s rich, easy to make, and brings a lot of joy to the table. Whether you go traditional or make it your own with toppings and mix-ins, it belongs in your recipe rotation. Try it once, and it might just become a family favorite.

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