Mashed Potato Casserole hugs your taste buds like grandma’s cozy quilt, inviting you into the heart of comfort cooking. Fluffy potatoes whipped with creamy butter and rich milk mingle with savory sautéed onions, garlic and a sprinkle of smoky paprika, while pockets of melting cheddar add golden delight. Topped with a crisp layer of panko breadcrumbs and fresh chives, this dish crackles with warmth and playfulness. Each steaming scoop is a joyful celebration of homey flavors that lift any dinner to a festive feast, making every spoonful a comforting embrace on your dinner table.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Casserole
- Comfort food at its finest, perfect for family gatherings.
- Rich and creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Easy to prepare ahead of time, saving you stress on busy days.
- Versatile toppings to customize for every taste.
- A crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Mashed Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine your creamy mashed potatoes, sour cream, milk, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and inviting.
- Step 3: Now, stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, half of the cheddar cheese, green onions, and bacon bits. Mix well to distribute all those delicious flavors.
- Step 4: Carefully transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure every corner is filled with that creamy goodness.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This will create a delightful, crispy layer when baked.
- Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is beautifully golden brown.
- Step 7: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbs | 30g |
Ingredients
Gather these delicious ingredients for your ultimate mashed potato casserole!
- 4 cups mashed potatoes – your favorite homemade or store-bought
- 1 cup sour cream – adds creaminess and tang
- 1/2 cup milk – for the perfect consistency
- 1/4 cup butter – melted, for richness
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for a cheesy flavor
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – adds savory depth
- Salt and pepper – to taste, for seasoning
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions – for freshness and color
- 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits – for texture and smokiness
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs – for a crunchy topping
How to Make Mashed Potato Casserole
This delightful Mashed Potato Casserole is perfect for gatherings! With a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, plus an extra 5 minutes for resting, you’ll have a warm, cheesy dish ready to impress.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your casserole bakes evenly and comes out perfectly golden.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine your creamy mashed potatoes, sour cream, milk, and melted butter. Stir until the mixture is smooth and inviting.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Now, stir in garlic powder, salt, pepper, half of the cheddar cheese, green onions, and bacon bits. Mix well to distribute all those delicious flavors.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
Carefully transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, making sure every corner is filled with that creamy goodness.
Step 5: Top It Off
Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs evenly over the top. This will create a delightful, crispy layer when baked.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the top is beautifully golden brown.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This will help it set and make it easier to serve. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Side Dish |
| Cuisine | American |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Extra Time | 5 minutes (resting) |
| Total Time | 50 minutes |
| Dietary | Vegetarian |
| Serves | 8 |
| Best Served | Warm and cheesy |
Pro Tips for Making Mashed Potato Casserole
- Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for a creamy texture.
- Warm your milk and butter before mixing for smoother potatoes.
- Season in layers for a more flavorful dish.
- Top with cheese and breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.
- Let it rest before serving to enhance the flavors.
How to Serve this Mashed Potato Casserole
- Top with crispy fried onions for a delightful crunch.
- Pair with roasted vegetables for a colorful plate.
- Serve alongside grilled chicken or turkey for a hearty meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of flavor.
- Enjoy as a comforting side dish at holiday gatherings.
- Mix in some cheese for an extra cheesy twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and preparing your Mashed Potato Casserole ahead of time is a breeze:
Storing Mashed Potato Casserole Leftovers
- Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing Mashed Potato Casserole
- Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
- Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- For best quality, avoid freezing with toppings like cheese until reheating.
Reheating Mashed Potato Casserole
- Thaw frozen casserole in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-40 minutes.
- Cover with foil to prevent drying out, removing it for the last 10 minutes.
- Stir occasionally for even heating and add a splash of milk if needed.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What does Gordon Ramsay put in his mashed potatoes?
Gordon Ramsay is known for his creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes. He typically includes ingredients like butter, cream, and sometimes roasted garlic for an extra depth of flavor. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and to mash the potatoes until they are smooth and fluffy, ensuring a rich and indulgent side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal.
2. What is in Tucci’s 4 ingredient potato casserole?
Stanley Tucci’s 4 ingredient potato casserole is a simple yet delicious dish that typically includes potatoes, butter, cream, and cheese. The potatoes are sliced and layered with the other ingredients, then baked until golden and bubbly. This casserole is a comforting and satisfying way to enjoy potatoes, making it a great addition to any dinner table.
3. What are the 5 components of a casserole?
A casserole typically consists of five main components: a protein (like chicken or beans), a starch (such as rice or pasta), vegetables (like broccoli or carrots), a binding agent (like cream soup or cheese), and a topping (such as breadcrumbs or cheese). These elements come together to create a hearty and flavorful dish that can be customized to your taste.
4. What to make with leftover mashed potatoes?
Leftover mashed potatoes can be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes! You can make potato pancakes by mixing the mashed potatoes with eggs and flour, then frying them until crispy. Another option is to use them in a shepherd’s pie, layering them over a savory meat and vegetable filling. You can also incorporate them into soups for added creaminess or even use them to make gnocchi for a fun twist on pasta night.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, the Ultimate Mashed Potato Casserole! This dish is not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Simple to make and oh-so-rewarding, it’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite. Happy cooking!