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.