Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
Introduction
This mashed potato casserole is a creamy, comforting side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Made with Yukon Gold potatoes and a rich blend of butter, sour cream, and cream cheese, it bakes to golden perfection with a smooth texture and inviting flavor.

Ingredients
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese (optional)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or roasted (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel and chop the potatoes into chunks, then place them in a large pot with cold salted water.
- Step 2: Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15–20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Step 3: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Let them sit for a minute to release steam.
- Step 4: Mash the potatoes until smooth using a masher, ricer, or hand mixer.
- Step 5: Add butter, sour cream, milk or cream, and cream cheese. Mix until fully incorporated.
- Step 6: Season with salt and pepper. Fold in garlic if using.
- Step 7: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish and smooth the top.
- Step 8: Optional: dot with butter or sprinkle cheese on top.
- Step 9: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes until heated through and lightly golden.
- Step 10: Garnish with chopped chives or parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try roasting the garlic before folding it into the potatoes.
- You can substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream for a tangier taste and added protein.
- Add shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a cheesy crust.
- Use a potato ricer for the smoothest, fluffiest texture.
Storage
Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Microwaving is also possible, but may result in a less creamy texture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and assemble the casserole a day ahead. Keep it covered in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
Can I use different types of potatoes?
While Yukon Gold potatoes yield a creamy consistency, you can substitute Russet potatoes. Just note that the texture may be slightly different—Russets are starchier and result in fluffier potatoes.
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Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Mashed Potato Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Made with Yukon Gold potatoes, rich butter, sour cream, and optional cream cheese, it combines fluffy mashed potatoes with a golden baked top, enhanced by subtle garlic flavor and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes
Dairy and Fats
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese (optional)
Seasonings and Garnish
- 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic (optional, minced or roasted)
- 2 tablespoons chopped chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into chunks, then place them in a large pot filled with cold salted water.
- Boil Potatoes: Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15–20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender and easily pierced.
- Drain and Steam Off Moisture: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Let them sit for a minute to release any remaining steam, preventing excess moisture in the mash.
- Mash Potatoes: Using a potato masher, ricer, or hand mixer, mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
- Add Creamy Ingredients: Incorporate the unsalted butter, sour cream, milk or heavy cream, and cream cheese (if using) into the mashed potatoes, mixing well until fully blended.
- Season the Mash: Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste and gently fold in minced or roasted garlic if desired.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Transfer the mashed potatoes into a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top evenly.
- Optional Toppings: Dot the surface with additional butter or sprinkle shredded cheese over the top for extra richness and flavor.
- Bake: Bake the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until heated through and the top is lightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and fresh taste.
Notes
- Using Yukon Gold potatoes ensures a creamy texture due to their buttery flavor and medium starch content.
- For a richer taste, opt for heavy cream instead of milk.
- Cream cheese is optional but adds extra creaminess and tang.
- Roasted garlic can add a milder, sweet garlic flavor compared to raw minced garlic.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- To make this dish lower fat, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and use low-fat milk.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: mashed potato casserole, baked mashed potatoes, creamy potato side dish, Yukon Gold potatoes, holiday side dish

