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Instructions
1. Boil the Potatoes
Start by placing the peeled and cubed potatoes into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Bring the potatoes to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until they’re fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- The key to creamy mashed potatoes is cooking them thoroughly, so don’t rush this step. Once the potatoes are tender, drain them and return them to the pot.
2. Mash the Potatoes
Using a potato masher or a hand mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth and lump-free. If you prefer ultra-smooth potatoes, you can also use a potato ricer for a silkier texture.
- Tip: If the mashed potatoes seem a little dry, add extra milk a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
3. Mix in the Creamy Ingredients
Once the potatoes are mashed, stir in the sour cream, melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese to the mashed potatoes and mix until everything is evenly combined and the cheese has melted into the potatoes.
- The sour cream adds a tangy creaminess, while the cheese makes the mashed potatoes rich and gooey—perfect for a casserole!
4. Transfer to a Casserole Dish
Transfer the mashed potato mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Use a spatula to smooth out the top and ensure that the mashed potatoes are evenly spread across the dish.
- For extra flavor, you can sprinkle chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits over the top before baking, but this is optional.
5. Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs) with the melted butter. Stir until the cornflakes are coated and form a crumbly mixture. Sprinkle this topping evenly over the mashed potatoes in the casserole dish.
- The cornflake topping gives the casserole that perfect crunch and golden-brown finish. If you want to make it extra crispy, feel free to add more cornflakes.
6. Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and crispy. The edges should be slightly bubbling, and the cheese will be melted and gooey.
- Tip: If you want an even crunchier topping, broil the casserole for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
7. Garnish and Serve
Once the casserole is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh herbs like parsley if desired. Then, scoop and serve!
Tips for the Perfect Mashed Potato Casserole
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole in advance by making the mashed potatoes and assembling everything in the casserole dish. Cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply add the topping and bake as directed. It’s a great time-saver for busy holidays or family gatherings.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like cream cheese, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile. A combination of cheeses will give your casserole extra creaminess and depth.
- Add-ins for Extra Flavor: If you’re craving a bit more flavor, consider adding chopped cooked bacon, sautéed onions, or roasted garlic to the mashed potatoes before baking. These ingredients will elevate your casserole and add layers of savory goodness.
- Topping Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of cornflakes, you can use panko breadcrumbs for a similar crunchy topping. For a more savory twist, mix in parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for an extra flavor boost.
- Vegan or Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter, non-dairy milk, and dairy-free cheese. You can also use vegan sour cream to keep the creamy texture intact.
Why You’ll Love Mashed Potato Casserole
Mashed Potato Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion, and here’s why:
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This casserole is packed with creamy mashed potatoes, cheesy goodness, and a crispy topping that creates the ultimate comforting dish. It’s perfect for warming up on cold evenings or when you want something hearty and satisfying.
- Crowd-Pleasing: It’s a great dish to bring to a party or serve to guests. The large serving size and rich flavors make it perfect for family-style meals or gatherings.
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this mashed potato casserole is incredibly easy to make. Plus, it can be made ahead of time to save you time on busy days.
- Versatile: You can customize the casserole with various mix-ins and toppings to suit your preferences. Whether you like it extra cheesy, with a crunchy bacon topping, or sprinkled with herbs, you can make it your own.
Final Thoughts
This Mashed Potato Casserole is the epitome of comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes, savory cheese, and a crispy topping for a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. It’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, or whenever you want to enjoy the warmth and richness of mashed potatoes with a little extra flair.
With its easy preparation, make-ahead potential, and customizable options, this casserole will become a staple in your recipe collection. So, grab those potatoes and get ready to indulge in the ultimate mashed potato experience!
Enjoy! 🥔🧀🍽️
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