Name: Mashed Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 pounds Russet potatoes; 4 tablespoons butter; 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped chives (optional)

Creamy, cheesy, and comforting—this Mashed Potato Casserole is everything you love about mashed potatoes, but elevated for gatherings or weeknight indulgence. Rich with sour cream, butter, and melty cheese, it’s baked to golden perfection in a casserole dish. Topped with chives or extra cheese, every scoop is a bite of cozy heaven.

This dish takes the humble mashed potato and turns it into a show-stopping side. It pairs beautifully with hearty mains like meatloaf, roast chicken, or even a holiday turkey. Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving or just craving a soul-satisfying comfort meal, this casserole fits right in.

Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Casserole

Ultra creamy texture with a cheesy, buttery finish.
Can be made ahead and baked when ready.
Perfect for potlucks, holidays, and family dinners.
Customizable with mix-ins like bacon, garlic, or herbs.
A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that feeds a group with ease.

What Kind of Potatoes Work Best?

For the best results, use Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes. Russets deliver fluffiness and absorb flavors beautifully, while Yukon Golds bring a natural buttery taste and velvety texture. Avoid waxy varieties like red potatoes, as they tend to stay firm and won’t mash as smoothly.

Ingredients for the Mashed Potato Casserole

The flavor of this casserole comes from simple, comforting staples that create a rich and indulgent bite.

Russet potatoes: They provide the ideal fluffy texture when mashed.
Butter: Adds that classic creamy richness.
Sour cream: Gives a tangy depth that balances the heaviness of the dish.
Cream cheese: Helps achieve that ultra-smooth, luscious consistency.
Milk: Loosens the mash just enough for easy mixing and baking.
Garlic powder: Adds a subtle warmth without overpowering.
Salt & pepper: The essentials for seasoning to taste.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Mixed in and melted on top for cheesy goodness.
Chives (optional): A fresh finish with light onion flavor.

How To Make the Mashed Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prep the Potatoes

Peel and cut the Russet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 2: Mash & Mix

Drain the potatoes and return them to the hot pot. Add butter, cream cheese, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Add Cheese & Assemble

Fold in half of the shredded cheddar. Spread the mixture into a greased casserole dish and smooth the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly.

Step 4: Bake It Up

Bake uncovered at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Optional: broil for the last 2 minutes for a crisp top.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Top with fresh chives just before serving for an added pop of flavor and color.

Serving and Storing Mashed Potato Casserole

This casserole serves 8 people generously as a side dish. It’s a great choice for holiday tables, Sunday dinners, or meal prep.

To store: Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Transfer to a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through.