Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort-food side dish—creamy, buttery mashed potatoes baked until lightly golden and topped with flavorful add-ins that melt right into every bite. This crowd-pleasing casserole is perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, potlucks, or anytime you want a warm and satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with roasted meats, veggies, and hearty mains. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or making mashed potato casserole for the first time, this easy recipe delivers rich flavor, smooth texture, and dependable results every time.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 35 mins
- Total Time: 55 mins
- Servings: 8
- Yield: 1 (9x13-inch) casserole
Ingredients
- 4 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup milk (more as needed)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional toppings: sliced green onions, cooked crumbled bacon, paprika
Directions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch casserole dish.
- Boil the potatoes: Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Mash the potatoes: Drain well and transfer the cooked potatoes to a large mixing bowl. Add butter, sour cream, cream cheese, and milk. Mash until smooth and creamy. For extra-fluffy potatoes, use a hand mixer—but avoid over-mixing to prevent gumminess.
- Season and mix: Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and 1/2 cup of the cheddar cheese. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Transfer to casserole dish: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into the prepared baking dish. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and Parmesan.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden around the edges.
- Finish and serve: Sprinkle with green onions, bacon, or a light dusting of paprika before serving if desired. Serve warm.
Tip: This casserole can be made 1 day ahead! Prepare the mashed potatoes, spread into your baking dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Add 10 extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
Nutrition Facts (per serving) — Estimated values
- Calories: 345
- Total Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 52mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Total Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 9g
Conclusion
This Mashed Potato Casserole is a dependable, creamy, and comforting classic that works for holidays, gatherings, and cozy weeknight dinners. Its smooth texture, rich flavor, and perfect blend of cheeses make it an easy favorite among both new cooks and seasoned pros. Plus, the make-ahead option keeps kitchen stress to a minimum—especially during busy meal prep days. Serve it alongside your favorite entrée, or bring it to your next potluck and watch it disappear fast!
