introduction
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the creaminess of mashed potatoes with the rich flavors of cheese. It is perfect as a side dish for gatherings or a comforting meal on its own. This recipe is simple to follow and delivers a creamy, cheesy experience that everyone will love.
why make this recipe
Making Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole is a great choice for many reasons. First, it is a comforting food that brings warmth to any meal. It’s easy to prepare and can be a crowd-pleaser during family dinners or holiday feasts. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra potatoes and cheese, making it both a practical and tasty choice.
how to make Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
Ingredients :
- 5 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup cream cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions :
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes well.
- Mash the potatoes with cream cheese, butter, milk, onion powder, salt, and pepper until they are creamy.
- Fold in half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top the mixture with the remaining cheeses.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is melted and slightly golden.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
how to serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole is best served hot. You can present it as a side dish with meats like chicken, beef, or pork. It also works well as a main dish for a casual family dinner. Pair it with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
how to store Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings if you prefer.
tips to make Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
- Make sure to boil the potatoes until they are very tender for a smooth mash.
- Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
- To add some crunch, consider topping with breadcrumbs before baking.
- Let the casserole sit for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven; this helps it set up nicely.
variation
You can try adding other ingredients such as bacon bits for a smoky flavor or incorporate vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition. Mixing in different types of cheese, like pepper jack or gouda, can also give the dish a unique twist.
FAQs
What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal choices because they are starchy and mash well.
Can I make Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.
Is there a way to make it healthier?
You can use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of butter and cheese to make it lighter without sacrificing too much flavor.
Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 medium medium potatoes, peeled and diced Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal choices.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese Low-fat options can be used for a lighter version.
- 1/4 cup butter Can be reduced for a lighter version.
- 1/3 cup milk Use preferred milk type.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until they are fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes well.
- Mash the potatoes with cream cheese, butter, milk, onion powder, salt, and pepper until they are creamy.
- Fold in half of the mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Spread the mixture into a greased baking dish.
- Top the mixture with the remaining cheeses.
Baking
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is melted and slightly golden.
Serving
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.