Mashed Potato Casserole

Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe - Vegetarian Food from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Mashed Potato Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that is perfect for any occasion. This creamy and flavorful casserole is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

History

Mashed potatoes have been a staple in many households for centuries. The idea of turning mashed potatoes into a casserole likely originated as a way to make the dish more substantial and flavorful. Over time, different variations of the recipe have emerged, each with its own unique twist.

Ingredients

10 medium potatoes, peeled
salt and pepper to taste
1 cup sour cream
8 oz (227 g) cream cheese
1 large onion, chopped (red, white, or yellow only)
melted butter
paprika

How to prepare

In a large soup pot, bring the potatoes to a boil.
Drain the potatoes, then season and mash them.
Add the sour cream, cream cheese, and onion, and mix everything thoroughly.
Transfer the mixture to a 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish and let it cool.
Cover the dish and refrigerate it for 24 hours.
Before baking, top the dish with melted butter and sprinkle it with paprika.
Bake the dish in a preheated 350° F oven for 30 minutes.
Serve the dish warm, either plain or with any vegetable, side dish, main dish, or appetizer.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Mix in shredded cheese for added richness.
Top the casserole with breadcrumbs for a crunchy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to thoroughly mash the potatoes to ensure a smooth and creamy texture.

- Adding sour cream and cream cheese to the mixture adds richness and tanginess to the dish.

- Letting the casserole chill in the refrigerator for 24 hours allows the flavors to meld together for a more delicious result.

- Top the casserole with melted butter and paprika before baking for a golden and flavorful crust.

Serving Suggestions

Mashed Potato Casserole pairs well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a simple green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Boil the potatoes until they are fork-tender.

- Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a hand mixer for a smooth consistency.

- Bake the casserole in a preheated oven until it is golden and bubbly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier alternative.

- Substitute chives or scallions for the chopped onion for a milder flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Mashed Potato Casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Mashed Potato Casserole in a decorative casserole dish for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Mashed Potato Casserole with a glass of Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for a delicious meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of Mashed Potato Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mashed Potato Casserole contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mashed Potato Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mashed Potato Casserole contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Mashed Potato Casserole contains approximately 5 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mashed Potato Casserole is a good source of Vitamin C, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

Mashed Potato Casserole contains dairy (sour cream, cream cheese) and may not be suitable for those with dairy allergies.

Summary

Mashed Potato Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides essential nutrients like Vitamin C and potassium.

Summary

Mashed Potato Casserole is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and flavorful ingredients, this casserole is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I have a clear memory of the first time I saw this recipe for Mashed Potato Casserole. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my friend Martha's house. Martha's grandmother was in the kitchen, preparing dinner for the family. I remember the delicious aroma of roasting chicken and the sound of pots and pans clinking as she moved about the kitchen.

As I sat at the kitchen table, Martha's grandmother began peeling potatoes with practiced ease. She then boiled them until they were soft and mashed them with butter, cream, and a hint of garlic. She layered the creamy mashed potatoes in a baking dish, sprinkled them with cheese, and popped them in the oven to bake until golden and bubbly.

I watched in awe as Martha's grandmother effortlessly whipped up this delectable dish. I couldn't wait to try it, and when she finally served it at the dinner table, I was blown away by how delicious it was. The creamy mashed potatoes were perfectly seasoned, and the cheesy topping added a delicious crunch.

From that moment on, I was determined to learn how to make Martha's grandmother's Mashed Potato Casserole. I asked her for the recipe, and she graciously shared it with me. She explained the steps in detail, and I committed them to memory.

I began making the Mashed Potato Casserole for my own family, and it quickly became a favorite among my loved ones. Over the years, I have made some tweaks and additions to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch to make it truly my own.

One of the key ingredients that I added to the recipe was caramelized onions. I discovered that by sautéing onions until they were golden brown and sweet, they added a depth of flavor to the dish that was truly irresistible. I also started mixing in some sour cream to the mashed potatoes for a tangy twist that balanced out the richness of the cheese.

As I continued to make the Mashed Potato Casserole for family gatherings and dinner parties, it became a signature dish that everyone looked forward to. The cheesy, creamy goodness never failed to impress, and I relished in the compliments and requests for the recipe.

I started to experiment with different types of cheeses, trying out combinations of cheddar, Parmesan, and Gruyere to create a more complex flavor profile. I also began adding in chopped chives and crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of texture and taste.

As I honed my skills in the kitchen and perfected my Mashed Potato Casserole recipe, I realized that cooking was not just about following a set of instructions but about infusing each dish with love and care. I understood that the secret ingredient in any recipe was the joy and passion that went into making it.

Through the years, I have shared this recipe with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have tasted my Mashed Potato Casserole and wanted to know the secret behind its deliciousness. I have taught my children and grandchildren how to make it, passing down the tradition of this beloved dish from generation to generation.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, peeling potatoes and sautéing onions, I can't help but feel a sense of pride and fulfillment. The aroma of roasting chicken and the clinking of pots and pans bring me back to that warm summer day at Martha's house, where I first learned how to make this Mashed Potato Casserole.

And as I take the bubbling casserole out of the oven and set it on the table, I know that I am not just serving a delicious dish but sharing a piece of my heart and soul with those I love. Cooking has become more than just a hobby for me; it is a way to connect with others and create lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.