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Easy Make-Ahead Mashed Potato Casserole: The Best Holiday Recipe

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This make-ahead mashed potato casserole is the ultimate stress-free holiday side dish. Creamy, tangy, and topped with a golden butter crust, it can be assembled up to two days in advance and baked when you’re ready.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 5 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened and divided
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1 teaspoon salt, plus more for boiling water
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
  • Fresh chives or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water by about 2 inches. Add a generous tablespoon of salt to the water.
  2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  3. Drain the potatoes in a colander. Return them to the hot pot and let sit for 2-3 minutes, shaking occasionally, to allow excess steam to escape.
  4. Add 1/2 cup (1 stick) of the softened butter and the softened cream cheese to the hot potatoes. Mash until the butter and cream cheese are mostly melted and incorporated.
  5. Pour in the warmed milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using). Continue mashing or gently stir until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the mashed potato mixture evenly into the dish. Dot the top with the remaining 1/2 cup of butter, cut into small pats.
  7. Let the casserole cool completely on the counter, uncovered. Once cool, cover tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
  8. When ready to serve, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole, covered with foil, for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbly. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Don’t overmix the potatoes to avoid a gluey texture. Warm the milk before adding. Season the boiling water for best flavor. Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature. For variations, stir in sour cream, shredded cheddar, bacon, or roasted garlic. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: make-ahead mashed potatoes, mashed potato casserole, holiday side dish, creamy mashed potatoes, easy mashed potatoes, Thanksgiving side dish, Christmas side dish

Find it online: https://willarecipes.com/easy-make-ahead-mashed-potato-casserole-the-best-holiday-recipe/