Ultimate comfort food: what is mashed potato casserole, the heavenly potato dish?
Mashed potato casserole, also known as “scalloped potatoes” or “potato gratin,” is a classic comfort food casserole dish made with layers of creamy mashed potatoes, cheese sauce, and often other toppings such as breadcrumbs, bacon, or vegetables. It’s a versatile side dish that can be enjoyed with various main courses, including roasted meats, poultry, fish, or grilled vegetables.
Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients:
- Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
- Butter
- Milk
- Salt and pepper
- Cheese sauce (made with butter, flour, milk, and cheese)
- Optional toppings: breadcrumbs, bacon, onions, mushrooms, garlic
Preparation:
1. Peel and boil potatoes: Peel and cut potatoes into chunks. Boil in salted water until tender.
2. Drain and mash potatoes: Drain potatoes and mash them until smooth.
3. Make cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened. Stir in cheese until melted.
4. Layer ingredients: Spread half of the mashed potatoes in a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with cheese sauce. Repeat layers.
5. Top with optional ingredients: Sprinkle with breadcrumbs, bacon, onions, mushrooms, or garlic, if desired.
6. Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 30-40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
Variations and Additions
- Cheddar cheese: Classic choice for the cheese sauce.
- Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty and salty flavor.
- Gruyere cheese: Offers a rich and slightly sweet flavor.
- Bacon: Adds smoky and savory flavor.
- Onions: Sautéed onions provide sweetness and depth.
- Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms add earthy and umami taste.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds aromatic flavor.
- Herbs: Sprinkle with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or sage for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Mashed potato casserole pairs well with:
- Roasted meats: Beef, pork, lamb, or chicken
- Grilled fish: Salmon, tuna, or swordfish
- Roasted vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, or brussels sprouts
- Salads: Green salads, Caesar salad, or coleslaw
Nutritional Value
Mashed potato casserole is a calorie-dense dish due to the use of potatoes, butter, and cheese. It provides:
- Calories: 250-300 per serving
- Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
- Fat: 15-20 grams
- Protein: 10-15 grams
Healthier Options
To make mashed potato casserole healthier, consider these options:
- Use low-fat milk or skim milk instead of whole milk.
- Reduce the amount of butter in the cheese sauce.
- Use low-fat cheese or a blend of low-fat and regular cheese.
- Add non-starchy vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or cauliflower to the casserole.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
Mashed potato casserole is a comforting and versatile side dish that adds a touch of cozy to any meal. Whether you prefer it classic or with variations, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
What People Want to Know
Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use instant mashed potatoes, but the texture may not be as smooth as if using freshly mashed potatoes.
Q: What type of cheese is best for the cheese sauce?
A: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can also use Parmesan, Gruyere, or a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to the casserole?
A: Yes, you can add non-starchy vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or zucchini to the casserole for added nutrition and flavor.
Q: How can I make the casserole vegetarian?
A: Omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth in the cheese sauce.
Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: The recipe is not gluten-free as it uses flour in the cheese sauce. You can substitute gluten-free flour to make it gluten-friendly.
