If you have a weakness for creamy, comforting dishes that feel like a warm hug in every bite, then you are going to love this Russet Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe. It takes humble russet potatoes to the next level by layering in rich cream cheese, full-fat sour cream, and a fragrant bouquet of herbs and garlic. This casserole isn’t just a side dish; it’s a celebration of everything that makes mashed potatoes irresistible, baked to golden bubbly perfection. Let me take you through the entire process so you can impress your family or guests with this soul-satisfying classic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and lovingly chosen—each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, whether it’s building creaminess, adding flavor depth, or creating a beautiful golden crust on top.
- 3 lb russet potatoes: These starchy spuds are perfect for a fluffy, creamy mashed base that holds up well in a casserole.
- 1 tbsp kosher salt: Essential to season the potatoes deeply from the start, enhancing their natural earthiness.
- 4 thyme sprigs: Fresh thyme offers an aromatic uplift, brightening the rich flavors without overpowering them.
- 1 bay leaf: Adds a subtle, herbal note that gently infuses the potatoes while they cook.
- 6 garlic cloves (unpeeled): Roasting garlic inside the skins creates mellow, sweet nuances that balance the richness.
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for topping): This butter melts into a golden crust, sealing in moisture and adding a buttery finish.
- Kosher salt to taste: Final seasoning to bring everything into perfect balance.
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened): Cream cheese melts into the potatoes for irresistible silkiness and tang.
- 3/4 cup whole milk (warm): Warm milk helps blend the ingredients smoothly, ensuring a velvety texture.
- Black pepper to taste: Freshly ground pepper adds a gentle heat and brightness.
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat): This boosts the creaminess and adds a pleasant tang to the casserole.
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter: Added directly into the mash for richness and depth.
How to Make Russet Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting your russet potatoes into even chunks to ensure they cook uniformly. Place them in a large pot with enough cold water to cover. Add the kosher salt, fresh thyme sprigs, bay leaf, and unpeeled garlic cloves for nuanced flavors as the potatoes boil. Bring to a gentle boil and cook until fork-tender, about 20 minutes. Don’t rush this step—perfectly cooked potatoes lay the foundation.
Step 2: Drain and Infuse
Drain the potatoes and garlic, reserving the herb sprigs and bay leaf. Remove the herbs and peel the softened garlic cloves, then mash the garlic into the potatoes for subtle garlic sweetness. Let the potatoes sit in the pot for a few minutes to release excess steam, which helps achieve the fluffiest texture.
Step 3: Add Creamy Ingredients
While the potatoes are still warm, add the softened cream cheese, sour cream, unsalted butter, and warmed whole milk. Use a hand masher or electric mixer to blend everything smoothly. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. The warmth is key to blending the dairy without lumps, giving you that famously smooth Russet Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe texture.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the mashed potato mixture to a buttered casserole dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Dot the remaining 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over the surface to promote browning. Bake uncovered for about 30 to 40 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are slightly crispy—pure comfort food magic!
How to Serve Russet Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like finely chopped chives or parsley sprinkle a pop of color and a burst of freshness that contrast beautifully with the creamy richness. A few crispy fried onions or crumbled bacon on top can add satisfying crunch and smoky flavor for a festive touch.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with roasted or braised meats such as turkey, beef, or pork, making it a perfect holiday or Sunday dinner side. For a lighter option, serve with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping centerpiece, serve the Russet Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins, topped with personalized garnishes. You can also add a layer of shredded cheese underneath the butter topping before baking for an extra gooey surprise.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delightful.
Freezing
You can freeze portions of the casserole in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to keep moisture locked in, for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. For a quicker option, microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through to maintain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use other types of potatoes for this casserole?
While russet potatoes are ideal for their fluffy texture and ability to absorb flavors, you can use Yukon Gold as an alternative for a creamier, slightly buttery taste. Just keep in mind the texture will be a bit different.
Is it necessary to add cream cheese and sour cream?
These ingredients give the casserole its signature richness and tang. You could substitute with heavy cream and extra butter for a different but still delicious result, although it won’t be quite the same.
Can I make this casserole vegan or dairy-free?
Yes, swap butter, cream cheese, and sour cream for plant-based alternatives like vegan butter, cashew cream, or coconut yogurt. Keep potatoes and seasoning the same for best texture.
How do I ensure the casserole has a crispy top?
Dotting the top with butter before baking helps create a golden, crispy crust. For extra crunch, sprinkle some panko breadcrumbs or shredded cheese on top before placing it in the oven.
What can I add to make this casserole more flavorful?
Consider mixing in sautéed onions, roasted garlic, or herbs such as rosemary or sage to customize the flavors. Adding cooked bacon or caramelized shallots on top can also elevate the dish wonderfully.
Final Thoughts
This Russet Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes that feels nostalgic and fancy all at once—a true classic that’s easy to make yet impressive enough to serve at any gathering. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or simply craving a cozy family meal, this casserole brings warmth, comfort, and plenty of smiles to the table. Go ahead and give it a try; I promise it will become one of your favorites too.
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Russet Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy and comforting Russet Mashed Potato Casserole made with fresh herbs, cream cheese, and sour cream, perfect as a hearty side dish for any meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 lb russet potatoes
- 1 tbsp kosher salt
- 4 thyme sprigs (fresh preferred)
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 garlic cloves (unpeeled)
Dairy & Toppings
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened to room temperature)
- 3/4 cup whole milk (warm)
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat)
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (for mixing, preferably Kerrygold)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for topping)
Seasonings
- Kosher salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste (freshly ground preferred)
Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes: Peel the russet potatoes and cut them into evenly sized chunks to ensure uniform cooking.
- Cook with Herbs and Garlic: Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1 tablespoon kosher salt, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, and unpeeled garlic cloves. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Drain and Remove Aromatics: Drain the potatoes and discard the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Keep the garlic cloves aside.
- Mash Potatoes: Squeeze the cooked garlic cloves out of their skins and mash together with potatoes for a subtle garlic flavor. Add softened cream cheese, sour cream, and warm whole milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Add Butter and Seasoning: Stir in 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter for richness. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the mashed potatoes to a baking dish. Dot the surface with 2 tablespoons unsalted butter to create a golden crust while baking.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for about 30-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, use a ricer or food mill instead of a traditional masher.
- Fresh thyme is preferred, but dried thyme can be substituted if necessary.
- Make sure to warm the milk before adding to avoid cooling the mashed potatoes down.
- The garlic is cooked with the potatoes unpeeled for a subtle flavor; squeezing out the roasted garlic adds richness without overpowering.
- This recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted meats and vegetables.
