There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming dish of Mashed Potato Casserole fresh from the oven. This elevated take on classic mashed potatoes transforms an everyday side dish into a showstopper worthy of holiday tables and Sunday suppers alike. With a creamy interior and a golden, slightly crispy top, it offers the perfect balance of textures that regular mashed potatoes simply can’t match.
What makes this casserole truly special is how it takes all the comfort of traditional mashed potatoes but adds layers of flavor and a make-ahead convenience that busy home cooks will appreciate. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply elevate a weeknight meal, this versatile dish delivers every time.
Why You’ll Love This
- Make-ahead friendly – prepare earlier in the day and bake when needed
- Creamier and more flavorful than standard mashed potatoes
- The crispy, golden top adds wonderful texture contrast
- Versatile recipe that welcomes customization with your favorite mix-ins
- Reheats beautifully, making leftovers just as delicious as the first serving
Ingredients
- 5-6 cups prepared mashed potatoes
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
- 8 chicken tenders, homemade or frozen
- Brown gravy, prepared or packet mix
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- If using frozen chicken tenders, let them sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften for slicing, if desired.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly across the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Warm the mashed potatoes beforehand if chilled.
- Layer the corn kernels and grated cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
- Slice the chicken tenders into pieces of desired size and distribute them evenly across the casserole dish.
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 20 minutes if using frozen chicken tenders, or for 15 minutes if using homemade chicken tenders.
- While the casserole bakes, heat the gravy on the stovetop according to the package instructions or your recipe.
- Drizzle the prepared gravy over the baked casserole and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra richness, substitute half-and-half or heavy cream for the milk
- Add cooked and crumbled bacon for a smoky flavor boost
- Try different cheese combinations like Gruyère and white cheddar for a more complex flavor
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream
- Add roasted garlic instead of raw for a sweeter, more mellow garlic flavor
- For herb lovers, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of fresh chopped herbs like chives, rosemary, or thyme
Serving Suggestions
This mashed potato casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats like chicken, beef, or pork tenderloin. The creamy texture and savory flavor complement grilled steaks or seared chops particularly well. For a complete meal, serve alongside a simple green vegetable like roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or a crisp garden salad.
If you’re serving this at a holiday gathering, it fits right in with other traditional sides like cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, and dinner rolls. The casserole format makes it perfect for buffet-style serving!
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- You can freeze this casserole before baking – just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.
- For the fluffiest texture, avoid over-mashing the potatoes which can make them gluey.
- The casserole is done when the edges are bubbling and the top is golden brown.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole up to 24 hours in advance. Keep it covered in the refrigerator, then bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
What type of potatoes work best for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal because of their high starch content, which creates a fluffy texture. Yukon Gold potatoes also work well for a creamier, buttery result.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian! Just be sure to check that your cheese is made with vegetarian rennet if that’s a concern.
How can I reheat leftovers?
For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, though the topping won’t stay as crispy.
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