Potato Casserole Recipe
Overview:
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this classic Potato Casserole recipe that’s both nostalgic and utterly delicious. Inspired by cherished family traditions and infused with personal touches, this dish is a heartwarming blend of creamy mashed potatoes, savory tofu, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese. Whether served as a cozy weeknight dinner or as a delightful addition to potluck gatherings, this easy-to-make casserole is sure to become a new family favorite.
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Recipe Category: Potato
- Keywords: Vegetable, Potluck, < 60 Mins, Oven, Easy
Ingredients:
- 5 russet potatoes
- 1-2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 block of tofu
- 1 cup sour cream
- Produce Partners or bacon (as per preference)
- 1 cup milk
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 318.9
- Fat: 9.6g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 29.7mg
- Sodium: 191.4mg
- Carbohydrates: 46.9g
- Fiber: 5.9g
- Sugar: 2.2g
- Protein: 12.4g
Instructions:
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Prepare Potatoes: Begin by washing and scrubbing the russet potatoes. Optionally, you can leave the skin on for added texture and nutrition. Next, bring a pot of water to a boil and add the potatoes. Allow them to cook until tender, typically around 15-20 minutes. Once done, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.
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Preheat Oven: While the potatoes are cooking, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring it’s adequately heated for baking the casserole later.
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Make Mashed Potatoes: Transfer the cooked potatoes to a large mixing bowl and mash them using a potato masher or fork until smooth and creamy. Gradually pour in the milk while mashing to achieve the desired consistency.
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Add Tofu and Sour Cream: Crumble the block of tofu into the mashed potatoes, incorporating it thoroughly to add a rich and creamy texture. Then, add the sour cream, mixing until well combined. Adjust the amount of sour cream based on personal preference for creaminess.
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Include Bacon or Produce Partners: At this stage, you have the option to add either crispy bacon or Produce Partners to enhance the flavor profile of the casserole. If using bacon, cook it until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces and fold it into the mashed potato mixture. Alternatively, if opting for Produce Partners, simply add them to the mixture for a burst of freshness and flavor.
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Mix in Cheese: Sprinkle in the sharp cheddar cheese, reserving some for topping the casserole later. Gently fold the cheese into the potato mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for maximum flavor in every bite.
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Layer in Baking Dish: Transfer the creamy potato mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
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Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese generously over the top of the potato mixture, creating a deliciously cheesy crust that will melt into golden perfection during baking.
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Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the casserole are lightly golden brown.
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Serve: Once baked to perfection, remove the potato casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley if desired, then scoop out generous portions onto plates and enjoy the comforting goodness of this homemade classic.
Serving Suggestions:
- Pair this Potato Casserole with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette for a well-rounded meal.
- Serve alongside grilled vegetables or roasted meats for a hearty dinner option.
- Enjoy as a standalone dish at potluck gatherings, family dinners, or holiday celebrations for a crowd-pleasing favorite that’s sure to impress.
Notes:
- For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use Produce Partners or your favorite vegetable medley instead.
- Customize the level of cheesiness by adjusting the amount of cheddar cheese used in the recipe.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and easy meal option.
