Description
This creamy and comforting Mashed Potato Casserole combines buttery instant mashed potatoes, shredded hash browns, and a blend of cheeses to create a delicious side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings. Topped with crispy French fried onions, it delivers a delightful combination of creamy texture and crunchy topping.
Ingredients
Scale
Mashed Potatoes
- 2 (4-oz) packages butter & herb instant mashed potatoes
Main Ingredients
- 1 (32-oz) package frozen shredded hash brown potatoes
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 4-oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt, or to taste
- ½ tsp pepper, or to taste
Topping
- 1 (2.8-oz) can French fried onions
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: Prepare the instant mashed potatoes according to the package directions, ensuring they are smooth and creamy.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked instant mashed potatoes, softened butter, softened cream cheese, shredded Monterey Jack cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly. Then fold in the shredded hash brown potatoes until evenly incorporated.
- Assemble Casserole: Spread the potato and hash brown mixture evenly into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, allowing it to heat through and meld flavors.
- Add Topping and Finish Baking: Remove the casserole from the oven and sprinkle the French fried onions evenly over the top. Return to the oven and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes, until onions are golden brown and crispy.
Notes
- For extra cheesiness, you can sprinkle a little extra shredded cheese on top before adding the French fried onions.
- If you prefer a crispier topping, broil the casserole for 1-2 minutes after the final bake, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked before serving for convenience.
- Make sure the butter and cream cheese are softened to ensure easier mixing and a smoother final texture.
- Adjust salt and pepper to taste, especially if using salted butter or a different brand of mashed potatoes.
