Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole is a creamy, rich dish that has a beautifully golden top, making it the ultimate comfort food side dish. This delicious potato casserole is perfect for holidays, easy dinners, or make-ahead meal prep. Whether you need a side for a family gathering or want to indulge in a comforting meal, this savory mashed potato bake is always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it keeps well and often tastes even better the next day, making it a staple in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole

There are numerous reasons to fall in love with this dish! First, it’s incredibly creamy and satisfying, perfect for a comforting meal. Second, the delicious combination of potatoes, butter, and cheese makes it irresistible. Third, it’s an ideal choice for holidays or family gatherings, showcasing a blend of flavors that everyone enjoys. Fourth, it can easily be customized to fit your dietary needs, with options for vegan mashed potato casserole and gluten-free variations. Fifth, the recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for any home cook. Sixth, it’s a great way to use leftover potatoes. Lastly, it’s a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with various main courses!

Ingredients for Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole

Gather these items:

3 to 4 pounds Russet potatoes
4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup whole milk (warmed)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
1 large egg (optional)
1 cup shredded cheese, divided (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)

How to Make Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole Step-by-Step

Step 1: Peel and chop potatoes into even chunks. Place in cold salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes).
Step 2: Drain potatoes well and return to the pot to remove excess moisture.
Step 3: Mash until smooth using a masher or ricer.
Step 4: Mix in butter, warm milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
Step 5: Add the egg if using and stir quickly to incorporate.
Step 6: Fold in garlic, half the shredded cheese, and herbs if desired.
Step 7: Transfer to a buttered baking dish. Smooth the top and create decorative swirls.
Step 8: Top with remaining cheese if using.
Step 9: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden on top.
Step 10: Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives or pepper.

Pro Tips for the Best Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole

Keep these in mind:

This dish is perfect for holidays and make-ahead meal prep.
It tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal planning.
You can customize it with your favorite cheese and herbs to enhance the flavor.
For a vegan mashed potato casserole, substitute butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk and sour cream.
To make it gluten-free, ensure your ingredients, especially the cheese, are certified gluten-free.

Best Ways to Serve Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole

This delicious potato casserole is best served alongside hearty main dishes. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats, such as turkey or chicken, and complements a variety of proteins. Consider serving it with grilled steaks or a savory vegetable stir-fry for a balanced meal. For potlucks, it’s one of the best mashed potato casserole options to share!

How to Store and Reheat Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole

To store your casserole, allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This makes it an excellent choice for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole

What’s the secret to perfect Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole?

The secret lies in using high-starch potatoes, like Russets, which yield a creamy texture. Additionally, using warm milk and butter prevents the potatoes from cooling down too much, ensuring they remain fluffy.

Can I make Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes it a convenient option for busy days.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure not to over-mash the potatoes, as this can lead to a gummy texture. Also, ensure that all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing for optimal creaminess.

Variations of Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Try adding roasted garlic for a more robust flavor, or mix in different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a homemade cheesy potato casserole. For a healthier twist, consider adding steamed broccoli or spinach. You can also create a vegan mashed potato casserole by using plant-based ingredients.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making creamy potato soup as a comforting option. If you have leftover potatoes, consider making loaded mashed potato balls for a fun twist!

For additional tips on potato varieties, you can refer to this guide on the best potatoes for mashing.

Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole: 8 Comforting Ways

Author: basmer
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, rich, and beautifully golden on top, this Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food side dish.

Instructions

Peel and chop potatoes into even chunks. Place in cold salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes).
Drain potatoes well and return to the pot to remove excess moisture.
Mash until smooth using a masher or ricer.
Mix in butter, warm milk, sour cream, salt, and pepper. Stir until creamy.
Add the egg if using and stir quickly to incorporate.
Fold in garlic, half the shredded cheese, and herbs if desired.
Transfer to a buttered baking dish. Smooth the top and create decorative swirls.
Top with remaining cheese if using.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes until golden on top.
Rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chives or pepper.