Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole: Irresistible Comfort Food

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this hearty and satisfying Mashed Potato Casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy Sunday dinners, this dish combines creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken tenders, sweet corn, and melty cheddar cheese, all smothered in savory brown gravy. It’s a family favorite that’s sure to warm your soul and bring everyone to the table with eager anticipation.

Inspired by nostalgic holiday casseroles and the need to transform simple ingredients into something truly special, this recipe has become a cherished tradition in my home. The crispy chicken tenders add a delightful crunch that elevates the creamy potatoes to a whole new level. Assembling this casserole ahead of time not only saves precious minutes on a busy day but also allows the flavors to meld together, creating a dish that’s even more delicious when baked to perfection.

Get creative with this versatile recipe by adding your favorite toppings like crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or a blend of cheeses. Whether you enjoy it as a complete meal or a hearty side dish, this Mashed Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. So gather your loved ones, preheat the oven, and savor the comforting aroma that fills your kitchen as this irresistible casserole bakes to golden perfection.

Quick Benefits

• Ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights or family dinners
• Make ahead meal – assemble in advance and bake when ready
• Versatile and customizable – easy to add extra flavors and textures
• Leftovers store well and can be reheated to maintain chicken crispiness

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole: Irresistible Comfort Food Recipe

• Ultimate comfort food: This recipe combines creamy mashed potatoes with crispy chicken, sweet corn, and melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy weeknights or family dinners.
• Kid-approved: Children love this dish, and even get excited when they see the mashed potatoes being prepared. It’s a surefire way to please picky eaters.
• Make-ahead meal: Prepare the casserole in advance, up to two days ahead, and simply add the chicken tenders before baking. The flavors meld together beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy days.
• Versatile and customizable: Get creative with this recipe by adding bacon, French fried onions, different vegetables, or experimenting with various cheeses and gravies to suit your taste preferences.
• Leftovers-friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days, and reheat in the oven for best results. The dish maintains its flavors and textures well, making it a great option for meal prep.
• Freezer-friendly: Individual portions can be frozen for up to 2 months, making it a convenient make-ahead option for busy days or unexpected guests.
• Simple ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples and frozen chicken tenders, making it a budget-friendly and accessible meal option for any occasion.
• Perfect for gatherings: Serve this casserole as a hearty side dish alongside roasted meats or with a side salad for a complete meal. It’s a versatile dish that can be scaled up or down to accommodate different group sizes.
• Easy preparation: Whether using homemade or store-bought ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and doesn’t require extensive cooking skills, making it suitable for cooks of all levels.

Ingredients for Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole: Irresistible Comfort Food

For Casserole

• 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 5-6 cups prepared mashed potatoes
• 8 chicken tenders, homemade or frozen
• 1 cup corn kernels
• Brown gravy, prepared or packet mix

How to Make Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole: Irresistible Comfort Food

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 2: Prepare Chicken Tenders

Allow frozen chicken tenders to thaw at room temperature for approximately 5 minutes before slicing, if desired.

Step 3: Assemble Casserole

Evenly spread the mashed potatoes in a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Warm them up before if they were chilled.

Step 4: Add Toppings

Evenly spread the corn kernels and grated cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes.

Step 5: Add Chicken

Cut the chicken tenders into preferred size pieces and arrange them evenly in the casserole dish.

Step 6: Bake Casserole

For frozen chicken tenders, bake uncovered for 20 minutes. For homemade chicken tenders, bake uncovered for 15 minutes.

Step 7: Prepare Gravy

Once the casserole is in the oven, warm the gravy on the stovetop following the directions on the package or in your recipe.

Step 8: Serve

Pour the prepared gravy over the baked casserole and serve promptly.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared the mashed potato casserole, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it is recommended to use an oven or toaster oven set to 350°F to help maintain some crispiness in the chicken tenders. If the casserole seems dry, having extra gravy on hand to refresh the dish can be a great idea. However, keep in mind that the chicken tenders may not maintain their original crispiness when reheated.

For longer storage, individual portions of the mashed potato casserole can be frozen for up to 2 months. While freezing is an option, note that the chicken tenders may not retain their initial crispiness after being frozen and reheated. When making this casserole ahead of time, you can prepare everything except the chicken up to two days in advance. Simply add the chicken tenders before baking, adjusting the baking time as needed for a cold start. This make-ahead preparation allows the flavors to meld together beautifully for a delicious meal whenever you’re ready to bake it.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to switch up the ingredients in this mashed potato casserole recipe, there are plenty of options to try. For a different protein option, consider using leftover cooked turkey or roast beef instead of chicken tenders. This can be a great way to repurpose leftovers and add a new flavor profile to the dish.

In terms of the vegetables, feel free to experiment with different options based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Peas, broccoli, or a medley of mixed vegetables can all be delicious substitutions for the corn in this casserole, adding color and a variety of textures to the dish.

When it comes to the cheese, you can get creative with different types to change up the flavor profile. From pepper jack for a spicy kick to mozzarella and parmesan for a milder taste, mixing and matching cheeses can add a new dimension to the casserole. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations to find your favorite flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate this comforting Mashed Potato Casserole, try serving it in individual ramekins for a cute presentation at a dinner party. Top each portion with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits and a drizzle of truffle oil for a gourmet touch. Pair it with a side of roasted asparagus spears for a well-rounded and visually appealing meal that will impress your guests.

For a cozy night in, serve this hearty casserole family-style in a large baking dish. Garnish the top with a generous handful of French fried onions for added crunch and a pop of color. Accompany it with a side of buttery garlic knots to soak up the delicious gravy and ensure no flavor goes to waste. This comforting meal is sure to become a staple on your dinner rotation!

FAQs for Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole: Irresistible Comfort Food

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, frozen chicken tenders work perfectly. Just let them soften for about 5 minutes to easily slice them before baking.

Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

What other ingredients can I add to customize this casserole?

You can add sautéed onions, bacon bits, or additional vegetables like peas or broccoli for extra flavor and texture.

Should I warm up cold mashed potatoes before assembling the casserole?

If your mashed potatoes are cold, warm them slightly before spreading them in the casserole dish to maintain their creaminess.

Conclusion

As you prepare to put your Mashed Potato Casserole in the oven, take a moment to appreciate the warmth and comfort that this dish will bring to your table. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, crispy chicken tenders, and savory gravy is sure to delight your taste buds and warm your soul. Whether you’re making this casserole for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.

Remember, the beauty of cooking lies in making a recipe your own. Feel free to get creative with your Mashed Potato Casserole by adding your favorite ingredients or putting your own unique twist on it. Let your imagination run wild and see where it takes you. And most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy the process and savor every delicious bite of this comforting and satisfying dish. Happy cooking, and may your kitchen be filled with the delightful aroma of Mashed Potato Casserole!

Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole: Irresistible Comfort Food

Creamy mashed potatoes meet crispy chicken tenders, sweet corn, and melty cheese in a savory brown gravy for the ultimate comfort food casserole.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time30 Minutes

Cook Time15 Minutes

Total Time45 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings6 Servings

Ingredients

For Casserole

• 1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
• 5-6 cups prepared mashed potatoes
• 8 chicken tenders, homemade or frozen
• 1 cup corn kernels
• Brown gravy, prepared or packet mix

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare Chicken Tenders: Allow frozen chicken tenders to thaw at room temperature for approximately 5 minutes before slicing, if desired.
3. Assemble Casserole: Evenly spread the mashed potatoes in a 9 x 13-inch casserole dish. Warm them up before if they were chilled.
4. Add Toppings: Evenly spread the corn kernels and grated cheddar cheese on top of the mashed potatoes.
5. Add Chicken: Cut the chicken tenders into preferred size pieces and arrange them evenly in the casserole dish.
6. Bake Casserole: For frozen chicken tenders, bake uncovered for 20 minutes. For homemade chicken tenders, bake uncovered for 15 minutes.
7. Prepare Gravy: Once the casserole is in the oven, warm the gravy on the stovetop following the directions on the package or in your recipe.
8. Serve: Pour the prepared gravy over the baked casserole and serve promptly.