Name: Mashed Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ pounds russet potatoes; ½ cup unsalted butter; 4 ounces cream cheese; ½ cup sour cream; ½ cup whole milk; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 ½ teaspoons salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped chives

Mashed Potato Casserole is the kind of comfort food that brings everyone to the table without needing a special occasion. It is creamy, buttery, and baked until golden on top with just the right amount of cheesy goodness. Whether you are planning a holiday dinner, a Sunday family meal, or simply craving something warm and satisfying, this dish always delivers.

What makes this casserole so special is how it transforms simple mashed potatoes into something extra cozy and crowd pleasing. The top turns lightly crisp while the inside stays fluffy and rich. Every bite feels homemade in the best possible way, like something passed down through generations.

Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Casserole

This Mashed Potato Casserole is easy to prepare ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or large gatherings. It reheats beautifully and pairs well with almost any main dish. The texture is smooth and creamy with a cheesy finish that makes it irresistible. You can also customize it with your favorite add ins like bacon, chives, or extra cheese.

Can I Make Mashed Potato Casserole Ahead of Time?

Yes, you absolutely can prepare Mashed Potato Casserole in advance. Simply assemble everything in your baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When you are ready to serve, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes, then bake until heated through and golden on top. This makes it especially helpful for holiday meals when oven space and time are limited.

Ingredients for the Mashed Potato Casserole

The beauty of this Mashed Potato Casserole is that it uses simple pantry staples to create a rich and satisfying side dish. Each ingredient plays an important role in building flavor and achieving that perfectly creamy texture.

Russet potatoes
Unsalted butter
Sour cream
Cream cheese
Whole milk
Shredded cheddar cheese
Garlic powder
Salt
Black pepper
Chopped chives

How To Make the Mashed Potato Casserole

This Mashed Potato Casserole comes together in a few simple steps, and the result tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Peel and chop the russet potatoes into evenly sized chunks. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold salted water, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork tender, then drain well.

Step 2: Mash Until Creamy

Return the hot potatoes to the pot. Add butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and warm milk. Mash until smooth and fluffy. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, adjusting seasoning to taste.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly into a greased baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the surface.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and lightly golden. For a slightly crisp top, broil for an additional 2 to 3 minutes while watching carefully. Garnish with chopped chives before serving.

Serving and Storing Mashed Potato Casserole

This Mashed Potato Casserole serves about 8 people as a generous side dish. It is perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or Sunday family meals. Serve it hot straight from the oven for the creamiest texture.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What to Serve With Mashed Potato Casserole?

Roast Chicken

Juicy roast chicken pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of Mashed Potato Casserole and makes for a comforting, balanced meal.

Baked Salmon

The richness of salmon complements the buttery potatoes and creates a satisfying dinner combination.

Meatloaf

Classic meatloaf and Mashed Potato Casserole together create a hearty and nostalgic plate.

Grilled Steak

A perfectly grilled steak served alongside this casserole feels like a restaurant quality meal at home.

Turkey

During the holidays, this casserole is a natural partner for roasted turkey and gravy.

Green Beans

A simple side of green beans adds freshness and color to your plate.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you enjoy this Mashed Potato Casserole, you might also love trying other comforting baked dishes from Mia Plates.

Classic Baked Mac and Cheese is another creamy favorite that is perfect for family dinners: https://miaplates.com/classic-baked-mac-and-cheese-recipe/

For a hearty option packed with flavor, try the Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole: https://miaplates.com/mac-and-cheese-meatloaf-casserole/

If you are looking for something with a crispy potato twist, the Copycat Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole is always a hit: https://miaplates.com/copycat-cracker-barrel-hashbrown-casserole-recipe/

You may also enjoy Loaded Scalloped Potatoes for another rich and cheesy side dish: https://miaplates.com/loaded-scalloped-potatoes/