Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole

There’s something magical about gathering around a warm dish of Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole. I still remember the first time my grandmother made it for Thanksgiving. The aroma wafting through the house was intoxicating, and I felt an overwhelming sense of comfort and nostalgia. This dish has a way of bringing people together, creating memories that last a lifetime. It’s the kind of meal that’s perfect for special occasions or just a cozy dinner at home. Every time I make this casserole, it takes me back to family gatherings where laughter filled the air and plates were always full. The creamy texture of the mashed potatoes combined with rich cheeses and a crispy topping makes it an irresistible choice for any feast.

What You’ll Need for Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole

The ingredients for Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole are simple yet effective in creating a dish that delights your taste buds. Each component plays an important role, ensuring a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful experience. The key players here are the precooked mashed potatoes, which make this dish easy to prepare without sacrificing taste. Combining it with cream cheese, cottage cheese, and sour cream adds layers of richness, while the cheddar cheese and butter finish it off with a decadent touch. Let’s dive into the details of each ingredient!

• 2 (24 oz) packages precooked mashed potatoes: The base of this dish, providing creaminess and a hearty texture. Using precooked mashed potatoes saves time while ensuring you still get that beloved comfort.
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, room temperature: This ingredient adds a silky texture, giving the casserole its signature creaminess. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
• ¼ cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and moisture, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• 1 cup cottage cheese: This contributes to the dish’s creaminess and also offers a subtle texture that contrasts beautifully with the smooth mashed potatoes.
• 1 tsp onion powder: A key spice that elevates the flavor, adding depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
• ½ tsp garlic powder: This gives a gentle hint of garlic, enhancing the savory notes of the casserole.
• 2 tsp dried parsley: Adds a touch of color and freshness to the dish.
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: This is the star cheese that melts beautifully, giving a rich and cheesy flavor.
• 2 Tbsp butter, melted: Used in the topping for added richness and a golden crust.
• ⅓ cup Italian bread crumbs: Provides that delightful crunchy topping that contrasts with the creamy filling.

How to Cook Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole

Cooking Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps for an effortless yet delicious dish that your family will love. You’ll see that it’s not just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about layering flavors and textures for the ultimate comfort food experience.

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. While that’s warming up, grab your trusty 9×13-inch baking dish and spray it with some cooking spray to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl (an 8-qt mixing bowl works great), combine the precooked mashed potatoes, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, onion powder, garlic powder, dried parsley, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
3. Once your mixture is ready, spread it evenly into the prepared baking dish. Make sure to get an even layer to ensure consistent cooking.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter, and Italian bread crumbs. This mixture will create a crunchy topping that everyone will love.
5. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the potato mixture. This is where the magic happens – that crispy topping is what makes this casserole stand out!
6. Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll want to look for a golden-brown crust on top, and the casserole should be bubbly around the edges. This indicates that it’s cooked through and ready to serve.
7. Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
8. Finally, scoop out portions and enjoy the rich, creamy flavors of your Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole! Pair it with your favorite protein or serve it alongside some fresh veggies for a balanced meal.

Ways to Adapt This Recipe

There are countless ways to put your unique spin on Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole. Here are some ideas to inspire your next creation!

• Storage: After enjoying this delightful casserole, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this casserole unbaked for later enjoyment. Just make sure to thaw completely before baking to ensure even cooking.
• Cheese Variations: Try using different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist on flavor. Each cheese brings its unique character to the dish.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like chives or thyme to the potato mixture for an aromatic lift that complements the creamy textures.
• Gluten-Free Option: Omit the Italian bread crumbs or replace them with gluten-free crumbs to cater to dietary restrictions.
• Extra Veggies: Incorporating spinach or broccoli can add nutritional value and flavors while making the dish more hearty.
• Serving Size: Feel free to adjust the serving sizes as needed; this casserole can easily be halved or doubled based on your gathering.

What Complements This Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole

• Grilled Chicken: Pairing this casserole with grilled chicken creates a perfect balance of flavors, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted or steamed vegetables for a nutritious addition that complements the rich creamy texture.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp salad can cut through the richness of the casserole, adding a refreshing element to your meal.
• Holiday Celebrations: Since this dish is perfect for Thanksgiving or Christmas, serve it during family gatherings to impress your guests.
• Comfort Food Night: There’s nothing like a cozy night in with this casserole, perfect for movie nights or casual dinners with family.
• Seasonal Pairing: In winter, consider serving this dish with a hearty soup or stew to warm up on chilly nights.
• Leftover Dishes: Use leftover casserole in creative ways, such as a filling for savory pancakes or as a topping for baked potatoes.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole is not just a dish; it’s a heartwarming experience that brings everyone together. Its creamy richness and delightful crunch make it unforgettable. I encourage you to try this recipe, whether for a special occasion or just an ordinary weeknight. You won’t regret it, and I’m sure it will become a staple in your home, just like it is in mine.

Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole

The ultimate comfort food, Million Dollar Mashed Potato Casserole offers a rich and creamy experience topped with a delightful crunch. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Indulge in this delicious dish tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Side Dishes

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 48 oz Precooked mashed potatoes
• 8 oz Cream cheese room temperature
• 0.25 cup Sour cream
• 1 cup Cottage cheese
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 0.5 tsp Garlic powder
• 2 tsp Dried parsley
• 1.5 cups Shredded cheddar cheese divided
• 2 Tbsp Butter melted
• 0.33 cup Italian bread crumbs

Equipment

• 8-qt Mixing Bowl
• Rotary Cheese Grater
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed potatoes, cream cheese, cottage cheese, sour cream, onion powder, garlic powder, parsley and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Spread into prepared pan.
3. Combine remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, melted butter and bread crumbs. Sprinkle on top of potato mixture.
4. Bake, uncovered, for 50 to 60 minutes.

Notes

• Make Ahead: You can prepare this casserole in advance and refrigerate or freeze it unbaked for later.
• Thawing: Ensure to thaw completely before baking.
• Mashed Potato Options: Use Bob Evans mashed potatoes or substitute packaged mashed potatoes for 4-1/2 to 5 cups leftover mashed potatoes.
• Gluten-Free: Omit bread crumbs for a gluten-free casserole.

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Meet Harper Dean

I love the creative challenge of making weeknight dinners feel special without the fuss. I work alongside the team to develop and test recipes that are reliable but never dull. I prepared this meal in my own kitchen, refining the steps to make sure your cooking experience is smooth, fun, and delicious.