Print

Best Make-Ahead Mashed Potato Casserole: Easy Cozy Recipe

make-ahead mashed potato casserole - featured image
Print Recipe

This make-ahead mashed potato casserole is creamy, buttery, and topped with a golden, crispy panko crust. It’s the perfect stress-free side dish for holidays, potlucks, or any cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, plus more for greasing the dish
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup whole milk, warm
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, plus more for the water
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Potatoes: Peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform 1-inch chunks. Rinse in cold water to remove excess starch.
  2. Boil the Potatoes: Place potato chunks in a large pot and cover with cold water by 2 inches. Add a generous tablespoon of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook until fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes.
  3. Drain and Steam Dry: Drain the potatoes in a colander. Return the empty pot to low heat for 1 minute to dry it. Return potatoes to the hot pot and let sit for 2-3 minutes, shaking occasionally, to allow excess steam to escape.
  4. Mash the Potatoes: Rice the potatoes into a large mixing bowl or mash them in the pot until smooth with no large lumps.
  5. Incorporate Creamy Ingredients: Add softened cream cheese, butter, and sour cream to the hot mashed potatoes. Stir gently until melted and incorporated.
  6. Add Liquid and Seasonings: Pour in warm milk, then add garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the potato mixture evenly into the dish, smoothing the top.
  8. Make the Topping: In a small bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with melted butter. Stir until evenly coated.
  9. To Bake Now: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover casserole with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, until top is golden brown and casserole is hot and bubbly. Let rest 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley if desired.
  10. To Make Ahead: After assembling (step 7), do not add topping. Cover tightly with plastic wrap, then foil. Refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, remove from fridge and let sit 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove plastic wrap, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover, sprinkle on panko topping, and bake for another 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Notes

For best results, use full-fat cream cheese and let it come to room temperature. Warm the milk before adding to prevent graininess. Do not over-mash the potatoes to avoid a gluey texture. The casserole can be assembled up to 2 days ahead or frozen for up to 3 months. Add the panko topping just before baking to keep it crunchy.

Nutrition

Keywords: make-ahead mashed potato casserole, creamy mashed potatoes, holiday side dish, potluck recipe, easy mashed potato casserole

Find it online: https://cooksyla.com/best-make-ahead-mashed-potato-casserole-easy-cozy-recipe/