Description
This Mouthwatering Mashed Potato Casserole is a creamy, cheesy comfort food classic perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Made with tender Russet potatoes, butter, sour cream, and a touch of garlic, this casserole is baked to golden perfection with a crispy cheese topping and garnished with fresh chives or green onions for added flavor and texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 3 to 4 pounds Russet potatoes
Dairy & Fats
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup whole milk (warmed)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheese, divided (optional)
- 1 large egg (optional)
Seasonings & Aromatics
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and chop the Russet potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure uniform cooking. Place the potatoes in a pot of cold salted water and bring it to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Drain and Dry: Thoroughly drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Heat gently over low heat for a minute or two to evaporate any excess moisture, which helps to achieve a creamy, fluffy texture.
- Mash the Potatoes: Using a potato masher or ricer, mash the potatoes until smooth and free of lumps, preparing the base for the creamy casserole filling.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Mix in the softened butter, warmed whole milk, and sour cream. Season with salt and black pepper. Stir well until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Egg: If using, quickly stir in the large egg to help bind the casserole and add richness.
- Mix in Flavorings: Fold in the minced garlic, half of the shredded cheese, and chopped chives or green onions if desired, distributing flavors evenly throughout the mashed potatoes.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the potato mixture to a buttered baking dish. Smooth the top and create decorative swirls for an attractive presentation.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese evenly over the top of the casserole to form a flavorful crust when baked.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped chives or freshly ground black pepper for enhanced flavor and presentation.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use cream instead of milk.
- The egg helps set the casserole but can be omitted for a more traditional mashed potato texture.
- Use sharp cheddar or a blend of cheeses for a more intense cheesy flavor.
- Make sure to dry out the potatoes after draining to avoid a watery casserole.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
