📌 Prep Time: 20 minutes
📌 Cook Time: 30 minutes
📌 Servings: 8

🛒 Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 2.5 lbs (1.2 kg) potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold, peeled & cubed)
• ½ cup (1 stick) butter, divided
• ½ – ¾ cup milk or heavy cream (adjust to taste)
• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Cheese Mixture:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend)
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for a gooey pull)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, adds extra flavor)
• ¼ cup mayonnaise (optional, for creaminess)
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional, adds tang)
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp onion powder
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For Garnish:

• Fresh chives, chopped

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Place cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
3. Drain well and return potatoes to the hot pot.
4. Add ¼ cup (½ stick) butter and mash until smooth.
5. Gradually mix in milk or cream until desired consistency is reached.
6. Season with salt & pepper to taste.

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2️⃣ Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a bowl, combine:
   • Shredded cheddar & mozzarella
   • Parmesan cheese (if using)
   • Mayonnaise & Dijon mustard (if using)
   • Garlic powder, onion powder, & red pepper flakes
2. Mix well.

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3️⃣ Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Spread half of the mashed potatoes into the dish.
4. Sprinkle half of the cheese mixture over the potatoes.
5. Spread the remaining mashed potatoes on top.
6. Sprinkle the rest of the cheese mixture evenly.
7. Cut the remaining ¼ cup (½ stick) of butter into small pieces and scatter over the top.

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4️⃣ Bake & Serve

1. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until golden brown & bubbly.
2. Let cool for a few minutes.
3. Garnish with fresh chives.
4. Serve warm & enjoy!

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🔥 Pro Tips & Variations

🥓 Want extra flavor? – Add crumbled bacon between the layers.
🧀 Love cheese? – Swap in Gruyère, smoked Gouda, or Monterey Jack.
🌿 Herb boost? – Stir in chopped thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
🥣 Make-ahead friendly? – Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

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📊 Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx.)

📌 Calories: ~350 kcal
📌 Carbs: ~35g
📌 Fat: ~22g
📌 Protein: ~8g

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💭 Final Thoughts

This cheesy, buttery mashed potato casserole is the perfect side dish for any meal—especially during the holidays or a cozy Sunday dinner.

💬 Tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out! ⬇️