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

Scale

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