If you are looking for a cozy, creamy, and irresistibly cheesy comfort dish, then this Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. It’s that perfect balance of fluffy mashed potatoes blended with tangy sour cream and cream cheese, all topped with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and fresh green onions. This casserole is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. Whether for a family gathering, holiday feast, or simply a weeknight treat, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite you’ll want to make over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role in creating the perfect harmony of creamy, salty, and savory notes. These simple staples come together to ensure wonderful texture, rich flavor, and that gorgeous golden-brown topping.
- Russet potatoes: Ideal for mashing thanks to their fluffy, starchy nature that absorbs all the creamy goodness.
- Sour cream: Adds tang and moisture that keeps the casserole luscious but not heavy.
- Cream cheese: Provides a silky smoothness and subtle richness to the mash.
- Unsalted butter: Brings smoothness and depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Whole milk: Ensures the potatoes are creamy but light enough to scoop easily.
- Salt, black pepper, and garlic powder: Essential for seasoning perfectly, enhancing every bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it tops off the casserole with irresistible gooeyness.
- Bacon: Crisped and crumbled, it adds smoky savoriness and crunchy texture.
- Green onions: Brighten the dish with a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
How to Make Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting 4 pounds of russet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot of salted water and boil until tender when pierced with a fork, about 15 to 20 minutes. This ensures they cook evenly and mash smoothly without lumps.
Step 2: Mash and Mix
Drain the potatoes well and return them to the pot to keep warm. Mash them until you achieve a nice, smooth texture. Then add 1 cup sour cream, 4 ounces softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter, 1/2 cup whole milk, and season with 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1 teaspoon garlic powder. Stir everything together until creamy and fully combined.
Step 3: Add the Flavor Boosts
Now fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled cooked bacon, and half of the chopped green onions. These ingredients lighten up the mashed potatoes’ texture while delivering surprising bursts of flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Transfer this luscious potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon on top for that perfect golden crust. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and just starting to brown.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish by sprinkling the rest of the green onions over the hot casserole to add a fresh, crunchy contrast. Then it’s ready to dive into!
How to Serve Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Besides the green onions already included, consider topping your casserole with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives for an extra pop of creaminess and color. Crispy fried shallots or a dusting of smoked paprika also work beautifully if you want to experiment.
Side Dishes
This Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted or grilled meats like chicken, beef, or pork. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables bring balance to the richness, making the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this casserole in individual ramekins or small cast-iron skillets to make it feel extra special. You could also create mini casserole cups by layering the mixture in muffin tins, baking until bubbly, and serving as bite-sized appetizers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your casserole, wrap any leftovers tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate. The mashed potato casserole will keep delicious for up to 2 days without losing its creamy texture.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of this dish for up to 1 month. To freeze, place cooled casserole in a freezer-safe container, cover tightly, and label. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat leftover mashed potato casserole, cover it with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 to 25 minutes until heated through and the cheese is melted again. For individual portions, microwaving is fine—just cover loosely to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use different types of potatoes for this recipe?
While russet potatoes are preferred for their fluffy texture, you can substitute Yukon Gold for a creamier, richer mash. Just note the consistency might be a bit denser but still delicious.
Is it possible to make a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon or swap it with a plant-based bacon alternative. The casserole will still be wonderfully flavorful thanks to the cheese and spices.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole and refrigerate it for up to two days before baking. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
What can I substitute for cream cheese if I don’t have any?
Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese can work as alternatives, lending a similar creamy tang, but keep in mind these changes may slightly alter the texture and flavor.
How do I make sure the casserole doesn’t dry out during baking?
Using enough sour cream, butter, and milk keeps the mashed potatoes creamy. Covering the baking dish with foil for the first 15 minutes can also help trap moisture, uncovered near the end to crisp the topping.
Final Thoughts
This Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe has everything comfort food lovers dream of: creamy, cheesy, savory, and utterly satisfying. It’s simple enough to whip up any night yet impressive enough for special occasions. I truly hope you give it a try and watch it become a new staple on your family’s table just like it has on mine. Once you experience the perfect blend of flavors and textures this casserole offers, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed mashed potatoes any other way!
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Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Mashed Potato Casserole is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting side dish perfect for any occasion. Loaded with sour cream, cream cheese, melted butter, shredded cheddar, crispy bacon, and green onions, it combines smooth mashed potatoes with a flavorful baked top layer. Easy to prepare and perfect for make-ahead meals, this American classic will please a crowd with its rich texture and savory taste.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: Place the peeled and chunked potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes until smooth, ensuring no large lumps remain.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Add the sour cream, softened cream cheese, melted butter, whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until the mixture is creamy and fully combined.
- Mix in Half of Toppings: Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the chopped green onions to the potato mixture.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mashed potato mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese and bacon pieces on top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the casserole is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with the remaining green onions, and serve warm.
Notes
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking. Let sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before reheating.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or substitute with plant-based bacon alternatives.
- Use freshly cooked bacon for best texture and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt, as cheeses and bacon add saltiness.
