Instant Mashed Potato Casserole – All the taste with less effort

Irresistible Instant Mashed Potato Casserole, featuring creamy goodness, crispy bacon, and melty cheese. This comfort food classic is ready in under 30 minutes!

Your busy family will adore this Instant Mashed Potato Casserole for its unbeatable combination of convenience, flavor, and comfort. With hectic schedules, it’s often challenging to prepare wholesome meals, but this recipe simplifies everything without sacrificing taste.

In just a few easy steps, you can whip up a hearty casserole that will satisfy everyone’s cravings. The convenience of using instant mashed potatoes saves valuable time in the kitchen, allowing you to spend more precious moments with your loved ones.

What sets this Instant Mashed Potato Casserole recipe apart is its versatility. Whether it’s a busy weeknight meal or a cozy Sunday dinner, this casserole fits the bill perfectly. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies—simply garnish with fresh scallions or chives for a pop of color and flavor.

Even picky eaters will be won over by the irresistible combination of flavors and textures. From the creamy, melt-in-your-mouth potatoes to the savory bacon and cheese, every bite is a symphony of comfort and satisfaction.

So, if you’re looking for a hassle-free yet incredibly delicious meal that will bring your family together, look no further than this Instant Mashed Potato Casserole. It’s the ultimate comfort food that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients for Instant Mashed Potato Casserole

The key ingredients that make our Instant Mashed Potato Casserole a mouthwatering delight start with creamy butter and flavorful chicken stock and then add aromatic garlic and onion powders, each element plays a crucial role. Don’t miss the savory richness of cream cheese and sour cream, paired perfectly with crispy bacon, shredded cheese, and fresh scallions.

** You can find the full recipe ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.

• Butter: Provides richness and flavor to the mashed potatoes.
• Water or Chicken Stock: Adds moisture and flavor to the mashed potatoes. Using chicken stock can add extra depth of flavor.
• Milk: This helps to achieve a creamy consistency in the mashed potatoes and adds richness.
• Salt: Enhances the flavor of the mashed potatoes and balances the other ingredients.
• Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and flavor to the mashed potatoes.
• Garlic Powder: Infuses the mashed potatoes with a savory garlic flavor.
• Onion Powder: Adds a mild onion flavor to the mashed potatoes without the texture of raw onion.
• Cream Cheese: Adds richness, creaminess, and a slight tanginess to the mashed potatoes.
• Sour Cream: Contributes to the creaminess of the mashed potatoes and adds a tangy flavor.
• Minced Parsley: Adds freshness and a pop of color to the mashed potatoes.
• Minced Chives: Provides a mild onion flavor and adds color and freshness to the dish.
• Bacon: Adds a smoky, salty flavor and crispy texture to the casserole, enhancing its overall taste.
• Shredded Cheese: Adds richness, creaminess, and a gooey texture to the casserole. It also forms a golden, bubbly crust on top when baked.
• Scallions (Green Onions): Similar to chives, scallions add a mild onion flavor to the dish but with a slightly different taste profile. They also contribute to the visual appeal of the casserole with their vibrant green color. Additionally, they provide a fresh and crisp texture, enhancing the overall eating experience of the casserole.

How to Make Instant Mashed Potato Casserole

** You can find the full recipe ingredients and instructions on the printable recipe card below.

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F.
2. In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Stir in the water or chicken stock and bring it to a boil.
4. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Add the instant mashed potato flakes to the mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Mix in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced parsley, and minced chives until smooth.
7. Crisp the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s golden brown and crispy. Then crumble it.
8. Pour the mashed potato mixture into a casserole dish.
9. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
10. Scatter the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Why this Recipe Works

1. Convenience: Using instant mashed potatoes significantly reduces preparation time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a quick meal.
2. Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of butter, chicken stock, garlic powder, onion powder, and other seasonings ensures that every bite is bursting with delicious flavors.
3. Creamy Texture: Adding cream cheese and sour cream to the mashed potatoes results in a luxuriously creamy texture that elevates the dish to a whole new level of comfort.
4. Versatility: This casserole is highly adaptable. You can customize it by adding your favorite ingredients such as bacon, cheese, and scallions, making it suitable for various tastes and preferences.
5. Family-Friendly: With its comforting flavors and textures, this casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic option for family dinners or gatherings.
6. Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare this casserole in advance and bake it when ready, saving you even more time and allowing for easy meal planning.
7. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit at any mealtime, making it a reliable go-to recipe for any occasion.

Recipe Tips and Kitchen Tricks

1. Consistency: Adjust the amount of milk according to your desired consistency. Add more milk for creamier mashed potatoes or less for a thicker texture.
2. Seasoning: Taste the mashed potatoes before baking and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to suit your taste preferences.
3. Creaminess: To achieve extra creamy mashed potatoes, make sure the cream cheese and sour cream are at room temperature before mixing them in.
4. Bacon Crispness: For perfectly crispy bacon, cook it until golden brown and crispy before crumbling it over the casserole. Blot excess grease with paper towels to prevent sogginess.
5. Cheese Selection: Experiment with different types of cheese for varying flavors. Cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of cheeses work well in this recipe.
6. Garnish: Don’t forget to garnish your casserole with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
7. Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove from the refrigerator, let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a flavorful vegetarian version.
• Spicy: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the mashed potatoes for a spicy kick. Top with pepper jack cheese for an extra burst of heat.
• Herb: Mix in chopped fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme, or sage for a fragrant and herbaceous flavor profile.
• Italian-Inspired: Add sun-dried tomatoes, chopped olives, and Italian seasoning [paid link] to the mashed potatoes. Top with shredded Parmesan cheese for an Italian flair.
• Tex-Mex: Stir in taco seasoning and diced green chilies into the mashed potatoes. Top with shredded Mexican cheese blend and serve with salsa and sour cream on the side.

Serving Suggestions

1. Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside a medley of roasted vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts for a nutritious and colorful side dish.
2. Grilled Chicken: Pair the casserole with tender grilled chicken breasts or thighs for a satisfying and protein-packed main course.
3. Green Salad: Balance the richness of the casserole with a crisp green salad tossed with your favorite dressing. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado for extra freshness.
4. Garlic Bread: Accompany the casserole with warm slices of garlic bread or dinner rolls for a comforting and indulgent meal.

Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions

Storing:

1. Allow the casserole to cool completely after baking.
2. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
3. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

1. Freezing instant mashed potatoes is not recommended as they can turn watery..

Reheating:

1. If frozen, thaw the casserole overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Remove the plastic wrap and foil from the dish.
4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through.
5. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until hot.
6. Stir the casserole halfway through the reheating process to ensure even heating.
7. Once heated through, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Drink Pairings

Remember personal preferences play a role, so feel free to explore and discover your favorite pairings!

Family-Friendly Drink Pairings:

1. Apple Cider: The crisp, sweet flavor of apple cider complements the comforting and savory notes of the casserole.
2. Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade provides a citrusy contrast to the richness of the dish, balancing out the flavors.
3. Iced Tea: Whether sweetened or unsweetened, iced tea is a classic and versatile beverage that pairs well with a variety of flavors, including the hearty elements of the casserole.

Wine Pairings:

1. Chardonnay: A buttery Chardonnay with hints of oak complements the creamy texture of the mashed potatoes and enhances the richness of the dish.
2. Pinot Noir: The light-bodied and fruity character of Pinot Noir provides a nice contrast to the savory elements of the casserole, with its notes of red berries and earthiness.
3. Riesling: A slightly sweet Riesling with bright acidity balances the flavors of the casserole, especially if it has spicy or tangy elements.

Cocktail Pairings:

1. Moscow Mule: The zesty kick of ginger beer in a Moscow Mule pairs well with the savory flavors of the casserole, while the lime adds a refreshing twist.
2. Old Fashioned: The classic and comforting flavors of an Old Fashioned, with bourbon, bitters, and a hint of sweetness, complement the hearty and rich characteristics of the dish.
3. Bloody Mary: A bold and savory Bloody Mary with its tomato base and spicy kick offers a flavorful contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes, especially if the casserole has bacon or other smoky elements.

Beer Pairings:

1. Brown Ale: The malty sweetness and nutty flavors of a brown ale complement the creamy and savory components of the casserole, making for a cozy and comforting pairing.
2. Belgian Witbier: The citrusy and refreshing qualities of a Belgian Witbier cut through the richness of the casserole, offering a palate-cleansing effect.
3. Amber Lager: With its caramel and toasted malt notes, an amber lager adds depth and complexity to the pairing, enhancing the overall dining experience without overpowering the flavors of the casserole.

Instant Mashed Potato Casserole

Ronda Eagle | Kitchen Dreaming

Irresistible Instant Mashed Potato Casserole, featuring creamy goodness, crispy bacon, and melty cheese. This comfort food classic is ready in under 30 minutes!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Course Side Dish, sides, Vegetable Sides

Cuisine American

Servings 4 people

Calories

Ingredients

  

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• 1/2 stick of butter
• 1-2/3 cup Water or chicken stock
• 2/3 to 3/4 cup Milk (use more for thicker consistency)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/4 teaspoon Ppepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion powder
• 2 ounces Cream cheese (softened)
• 1/4 cup Sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Parsley
• 1 tablespoon Chives
• 4 Bacon cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup Shredded cheese your favorite – I use sharp cheddar
• 2 Scallions (green onions) freshly chopped, optional

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 425°F.
• In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
• Stir in the water or chicken stock and bring it to a boil.
• Remove the pot from heat and stir in the milk, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
• Add the instant mashed potato flakes to the mixture and stir until well combined.
• Mix in the softened cream cheese, sour cream, minced parsley, and minced chives until smooth.
• Crisp the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until it’s golden brown and crispy. Then crumble it.
• Pour the mashed potato mixture into a casserole dish.
• Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top.
• Scatter the crumbled bacon on top of the cheese.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

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