Description
This Make Ahead Mashed Potato Casserole is a creamy, flavorful side dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings. Tender boiled potatoes are mashed with cream cheese and butter, then mixed with green onions, sour cream, fresh parsley, and seasonings. Topped with crunchy breadcrumbs and baked to a golden finish, this casserole combines comforting textures and make-ahead convenience, making it an ideal addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Dairy
- 10 potatoes (about 3 1/2 lbs)
- 1/2 lb cream cheese
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 cup sour cream
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 cup chopped green onion
- 1/2 cup minced fresh parsley
- 1 pinch dried marjoram
Seasonings and Topping
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup coarse fresh breadcrumb
Instructions
- Boil Potatoes: In a large pot of boiling water, cook potatoes for 20 minutes or until they are tender but not mushy, ensuring they hold their shape for the casserole.
- Drain and Peel: Drain the potatoes and let them cool slightly so they are safe to handle. Peel off the skins carefully.
- Mash Potatoes: Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until smooth. Avoid using an electric mixer to prevent a gluey texture. Blend in the cream cheese and butter while they melt together into a creamy mixture.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the chopped green onions, sour cream, minced parsley, dried marjoram, and season with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to combine all flavors evenly.
- Prepare Casserole Dish: Transfer the mashed potato mixture into an 8-inch (2 L) baking dish, spreading and smoothing the top to create an even layer.
- Add Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle the coarse fresh breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the mashed potatoes to add a crunchy golden crust after baking.
- Make Ahead Option: At this point, the casserole can be prepared ahead—covered and refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 week. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator for 24 hours before baking and add 10 minutes to the baking time.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Bake the casserole for about 20 minutes or until heated through and the breadcrumb topping is lightly golden and crisp.
Notes
- Do not use an electric mixer to mash the potatoes as it can make them gluey.
- This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated or frozen for convenience.
- If frozen, remember to thaw in the fridge for 24 hours and increase baking time by 10 minutes.
- Using fresh breadcrumbs gives the topping a better texture than dried ones.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American