How to serve mashed potato casserole?

For the holidays, I like to pair it with the classics like roasted turkey , cranberry sauce and crockpot stuffing . Throughout the week, I'll usually go with other comfort foods like Lipton onion soup meatloaf or crockpot brisket .

How to store leftovers?

Keep leftovers of this casserole with mashed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, then reheat in the microwave.

Can I freeze this mashed potatoes casserole?

This casserole can be frozen; however, as it happens when you freeze mashed potatoes, the texture changes once it is thawed. When it's completely cooled, cover with plastic wrap and then a layer of foil and transfer it to a freezer bag or freezer-safe container. Keep frozen for up to 1 month and then thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Make-Ahead Mashed Potato Casserole

Mashed potato casserole is up and coming as one of my favorite Thanksgiving side dishes. It’s similar to my loaded baked potato casserole in that it’s also loaded with bacon, cheese, and chives, but this one is made with creamy mashed potatoes!

It’s easy to prepare in an hour, whether serving it on a busy weeknight or making it in advance during the holidays.

Why I Love This Recipe

This flavorful side dish can replace your traditional cheesy mashed potatoes for something a little different this year!
You’ll love being able to make these ahead to save time and space in the kitchen.

Find the full printable recipe with specific measurements below.

Russet potatoes: Peeled and chopped into medium-sized pieces. Smaller pieces will cook faster.
Milk, butter, and sour cream: These make the mashed potatoes rich and creamy, and the butter also gives the buttery mashed potato casserole extra flavor.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Cheddar cheese: I use freshly grated cheddar from a block for best flavor. Aged cheddar has a nice sharpness that pairs with the potatoes and bacon.
Cooked bacon: I have a recipe for how to cook bacon in the oven with tips on how easily cook it without the mess!
Parsley and chives: Finely chopped, these add a pop of freshness and color.

How to Make Mashed Potato Casserole

Boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are fork-tender. Drain them and add the milk, butter, sour cream, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Use a potato masher to mash until the potatoes are creamy, then add in cheddar cheese.

Flavor Additions

For garlicky mashed potatoes, add roasted garlic or garlic powder to the potatoes.
Swap the sour cream for cream cheese. It’ll also provide richness with a slight tangy flavor.
You can use sliced green onions on top instead of chives or parsley or both.
Instead of bacon, you can use diced ham or turkey.

Make-Ahead Tips

To prep ahead, follow the directions up until you transfer the potatoes to the casserole dish. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and cover the dish with foil.

Refrigerate overnight, and bring it to room temperature when you’re ready to bake it. You can also bake it straight from the fridge; just be sure to add on extra baking time.