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Cozy Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Onions

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This creamy, cheesy mashed potato casserole is topped with crispy fried onions for the ultimate comfort food. It’s a soul-hugging dish that’s perfect for cozy nights, holiday dinners, or when you need a warm hug in a bowl.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 cup whole milk, warmed
  • 1/2 cup sour cream, room temperature
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more for water
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups French’s crispy fried onions, divided
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with 1 tablespoon of butter.
  2. Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water by 2 inches, and add 1 tablespoon salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
  3. While potatoes boil, combine warmed milk, 4 tablespoons butter, and minced garlic in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat until butter melts and garlic is fragrant (about 3 minutes). Do not boil.
  4. Drain potatoes in a colander, then return to the hot pot for 1 minute to steam off excess moisture.
  5. Mash potatoes until smooth using a potato masher or ricer. Do not overwork.
  6. Pour warm garlic-butter-milk mixture over potatoes. Add sour cream, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Fold gently until just combined. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  7. Spread half the mashed potatoes into the prepared dish. Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese on top. Add remaining potatoes and spread gently. Top with remaining 1 cup cheese.
  8. Sprinkle 1 cup crispy fried onions evenly over the cheese layer. Do not press them in.
  9. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is bubbly and edges are golden.
  10. Remove from oven, let rest 5 minutes. Sprinkle remaining 1/2 cup crispy onions on top. Garnish with fresh chives and serve warm.

Notes

For best results, grate your own cheese from a block—pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Add crispy onions in two stages: half before baking for toasty flavor, half after baking for crunch. Let the casserole rest 5 minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set. This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: mashed potato casserole, loaded mashed potatoes, crispy onions, comfort food, holiday side dish, cheesy potatoes

Find it online: https://sparklechew.com/cozy-loaded-mashed-potato-casserole-with-crispy-onions/