Cheesy Baked Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that combines fluffy mashed potatoes, rich cheese, and savory seasonings into one irresistibly delicious dish. Perfect as a hearty side for holiday dinners, potlucks, or even as a stand-alone main, this casserole is creamy inside with a beautifully golden, cheesy crust on top.
It’s a family favorite that brings warmth to any table, blending simple ingredients into a meal that feels indulgent without being complicated. With its smooth texture and robust flavor, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re using leftover mashed potatoes or starting from scratch, this recipe delivers on taste, presentation, and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
- 6 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warm)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for topping)
- 4 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled (optional)
- Extra butter for greasing the baking dish
Instructions
- Boil the potatoes: Place the peeled and chopped potatoes into a large pot of cold salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain and mash: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and mash until smooth and creamy. You can use a potato masher or electric mixer depending on your texture preference.
- Mix in the creaminess: Stir in the sour cream and warm milk. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Add the flavor elements: Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and chopped green onions. This blend gives a rich and aromatic base to the casserole.
- Prepare the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the mashed potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Top it off: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Add crumbled bacon if using, and a dash of paprika for color and a touch of smoky flavor.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden-brown on top.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with extra chopped green onions or herbs if desired. Serve hot as a side dish or enjoy it on its own.