Three Cheese Baked Mashed Potatoes Recipe
Total Time: 45 Minutes | Prep Time: 15 Minutes | Cook Time: 30 Minutes
Description:
This indulgent, cheesy baked mashed potato dish is an absolute must-try for all the cheese lovers out there! Made with a combination of cheddar, American, and parmesan cheese, it creates a creamy, flavorful side dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. And don’t worry about the instant mashed potatoes—this recipe elevates them into something truly special, perfect for busy weeknights or holiday dinners.
Ingredients
| Ingredient Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 4 cups | Instant mashed potatoes (prepared as directed) |
| 2 cups | Cheddar cheese, shredded |
| 4 slices | American cheese, torn into pieces |
| ¾ cup | Parmesan cheese, grated |
| 3 tablespoons | Bacon bits (plus 1 tablespoon for garnish) |
| 1 | Onion, finely chopped |
| To taste | Salt |
| To taste | Pepper |
| ⅛ teaspoon | Garlic powder |
| ¼ cup | Butter, melted |
| ¼ cup | Parmesan cheese, grated |
| ⅛ teaspoon | Onion powder |
| ¼ cup | Bread crumbs |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 587.3 kcal |
| Fat | 34.3 g |
| Saturated Fat | 19.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 95.7 mg |
| Sodium | 1112.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 42.6 g |
| Fiber | 3.2 g |
| Sugar | 3.1 g |
| Protein | 27.5 g |
Recipe serves 6.
Instructions
-
Preheat your oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s ready to bake the mashed potatoes to a golden, cheesy perfection. -
Prepare the mashed potatoes:
Make 4 cups of instant mashed potatoes as directed on the package. Once prepared and warm, transfer them into a large 2-quart casserole dish. -
Add the cheeses and mix:
To the warm mashed potatoes, add 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 4 slices of American cheese (torn into small pieces), ¾ cup of grated parmesan cheese, 3 tablespoons of bacon bits, and 1 finely chopped onion. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and ⅛ teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir the mixture until the cheeses start to melt and blend into the potatoes, creating a creamy, cheesy mixture. -
Prepare the topping:
In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup of melted butter, ¼ cup of grated parmesan cheese, the remaining 1 tablespoon of bacon bits, ⅛ teaspoon of onion powder, and ¼ cup of bread crumbs. Mix until the ingredients are well combined, forming a buttery, crumbly topping. -
Top and bake:
Sprinkle the buttered breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the mashed potatoes in the casserole dish. This will create a crispy, flavorful crust. -
Bake to perfection:
Place the casserole dish into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling around the edges. -
Serve and enjoy:
Remove from the oven, allow it to cool slightly, and get ready to dive into a cheesy, savory mashed potato dish that’s sure to please any crowd. Yum!
Tips for Success:
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Cheese Variations: If you want to experiment, try swapping out one of the cheeses for mozzarella or gouda. It’ll change the flavor profile but still deliver the same creamy, cheesy goodness.
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Bacon Bits: You can use freshly cooked and crumbled bacon for a more robust flavor. Just make sure to reserve a tablespoon for the topping.
-
Instant Mashed Potatoes: While instant mashed potatoes make this dish quick and easy, you can also substitute with homemade mashed potatoes for an even creamier result. Just be sure to keep them relatively firm, so they hold up well during baking.
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Make-Ahead Tip: This dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready, and add 10 extra minutes to the baking time.
Serving Suggestions:
-
Perfect Pairing: These Three Cheese Baked Mashed Potatoes pair perfectly with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or a holiday turkey. They can also stand alone as a hearty side dish for vegetarians.
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Add a Pop of Green: Garnish with fresh chives or parsley before serving for a pop of color and a mild oniony flavor that complements the richness of the cheese.
Enjoy this mouthwatering, cheesy side dish at your next gathering or weeknight dinner! It’s a recipe that’s sure to become a favorite on your family’s table, and with its easy prep, you’ll find yourself making it over and over again.
