Creamy mashed potato casserole baked with cheese and herbs

Mashed Potato Casserole

ByCasey Monroe

Why Make This Recipe

Mashed Potato Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or just a cozy night in. It combines creamy mashed potatoes with gooey cheese and crispy bacon, making it a favorite for many. This recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, offering a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Who doesn’t love a warm, cheesy dish that everyone will enjoy?

How to Make Mashed Potato Casserole

Ingredients:

  • 1.75kg/3.5 lb potatoes (Sebago, Russet, Maris Piper or King Edwards)
  • 1 tbsp cooking/kosher salt (for cooking potatoes)
  • 2/3 cup milk (preferably full fat/whole milk but lite is ok)
  • 2/3 cup EXTRA milk (for make-ahead option only)
  • 75g/5 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into 1cm/1/2" cubes)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream (or yogurt, full fat is best)
  • 1 tsp cooking/kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1 1/2 cups (tightly packed) mozzarella (freshly shredded)
  • 1 cup (tightly packed) Red Leicester, cheddar (or other flavored cheese)
  • 200g/6 oz bacon (streaky, chopped)
  • 1/4 cup green onion (finely sliced)

Directions:

  1. Cook Bacon: In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
  2. Mash: Peel and chop the potatoes. Boil in salted water until tender. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, sour cream, and salt. Mash until creamy and smooth.
  3. Make-Ahead Directions: If you want to prepare this dish in advance, add the extra milk into the mashed potatoes. This keeps them moist when reheating.
  4. Assemble: In a large baking dish, spread half of the mashed potatoes. Top with half of the mozzarella and Red Leicester cheese, half of the bacon, and some green onions. Repeat the layers with the remaining ingredients.

How to Serve Mashed Potato Casserole

Serve warm, straight from the oven. You can garnish with additional green onions or crispy bacon on top for an extra touch. This casserole pairs well with roasted meats or a fresh salad.

How to Store Mashed Potato Casserole

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Mashed Potato Casserole

  • Choose starchy potatoes like Russets for the best texture.
  • Don’t rush the mashing; take your time to make it creamy.
  • Feel free to add herbs or spices for extra flavor, like garlic powder or chives.

Variation

You can make this casserole vegetarian by skipping the bacon and adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead. You can also try different cheeses based on your preference or what you have on hand.

FAQs

1. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it as directed, then cover and refrigerate. You can bake it the next day.

2. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
While it’s best to use fresh potatoes for texture and flavor, you can use instant mashed potatoes in a pinch.

3. What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute, providing a similar tangy flavor and creaminess.