Mashed Potato Casserole
Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food upgrade. Creamy mashed potatoes are taken to a new level when baked with melty cheese, crispy bacon, and a golden top that makes every bite satisfying. It’s a side dish that steals the show and turns any meal into something special.
This dish is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a cozy weeknight dinner. You can prep it ahead, customize it with your favorite toppings, and count on everyone going back for seconds. Once you try it, you’ll never want plain mashed potatoes again.
Why You’ll Love This Mashed Potato Casserole
This casserole is creamy, rich, and full of flavor. The added cheese and bacon give it a smoky, savory kick while still keeping the potatoes soft and fluffy inside. It’s also super versatile—swap out toppings based on what you love or what you have on hand. The best part? You can make it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
What Kind of Potatoes Work Best for a Casserole Like This?
Russet potatoes are a solid choice because they mash up creamy and smooth, but Yukon Golds bring a buttery flavor and a slightly firmer texture that works wonderfully too. If you want an ultra-rich and creamy base, try a mix of both. Whatever you use, just make sure they’re cooked until fork-tender before mashing.
Ingredients for the Mashed Potato Casserole
This dish starts with a batch of mashed potatoes, but it doesn’t stop there. You’ll mix in flavor-packed ingredients that turn the ordinary into something unforgettable.
- Russet potatoes
- Butter
- Cream cheese
- Sour cream
- Whole milk
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic powder
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Cooked bacon
- Green onions

How To Make the Mashed Potato Casserole
Step 1: Cook and Mash the Potatoes
Peel and boil the russet potatoes until they’re fork-tender. Drain and mash with butter, cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth.
Step 2: Mix in Flavors
Stir in the whole milk, salt and pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Mix until creamy and well combined.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Spread the mashed mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon.
Step 4: Bake
Bake at 375°F for about 25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Top with freshly sliced green onions before serving.
How to Serve and Store Mashed Potato Casserole
This recipe makes enough to feed 8 to 10 people, making it ideal for gatherings or family-style meals. Serve it hot from the oven alongside your main course. To store, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month—just reheat in the oven covered with foil until warmed through.
What to Serve With Mashed Potato Casserole?
Herb-Crusted Chicken
The creamy texture of the casserole pairs perfectly with the crisp bite of roasted chicken.
Cajun Potato Soup
If you’re in the mood for a cozy all-potato dinner, this soup adds a spicy kick. Try the Cajun Potato Soup for a bold pairing.
Honey Glazed Carrots
Sweet and buttery, they add a bright contrast to the casserole’s richness.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes
Cheesy potatoes with herby chicken? Yes, please! Check out the Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes for the ultimate comfort combo.
Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken
This crispy chicken dish brings flavor and crunch that balances out the creamy casserole.
Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad
Serve it cold to contrast the warmth and creaminess of the casserole. Here’s Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad for an easy pairing.
Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken
Its brightness cuts through the casserole’s richness like a charm.
Want More Side Dish Ideas?
If you love this mashed potato casserole, you’ll probably want to check out these next:
- Cajun Potato Soup if you’re into rich and spicy.
- Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad for cold and creamy crunch.
- Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes when you want a hearty plate.
- Honey Butter Skillet Corn for a sweet and savory bite.
- Creamy Corn Dip for a party-friendly option.
Save This Recipe For Later
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add crispy onions or switch up the cheese? Maybe tossed in some jalapeños for a spicy twist?
I love seeing the creative ways you all make it your own. Let’s swap ideas!
Explore beautifully curated comfort food and family-style dinners on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next favorite meal. Zoe Recipes on Pinterest
Conclusion
Mashed Potato Casserole is proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something amazing. It’s creamy, cheesy, just a little crispy on top, and totally irresistible. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for leftovers worth fighting over, this dish delivers every single time.

Mashed Potato Casserole
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 to 10 servings
Description
This creamy Mashed Potato Casserole recipe is a cheesy, bacon-packed side dish that transforms classic mashed potatoes into a comforting baked delight. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or weeknight dinners, this loaded potato casserole is easy to make ahead and irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
3 pounds russet potatoes
4 tablespoons butter
8 ounces cream cheese
1 cup sour cream
1/2 cup whole milk
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
6 slices cooked bacon, chopped
1/4 cup sliced green onions
Instructions
1. Peel and boil the russet potatoes until fork-tender.
2. Drain and mash with butter, cream cheese, and sour cream until smooth.
3. Stir in whole milk, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until well combined.
4. Spread mashed mixture into a greased baking dish.
5. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon.
6. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes or until top is golden and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
Make it ahead: Prep the casserole and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking.
Customize it: Add jalapeños, crispy onions, or use different cheese.
Reheating tip: Cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg


