This Cheesy Garlic Herb Mashed Potato Casserole is your go-to comfort dish, perfect for any gathering or cozy night in. With layers of creamy potatoes, melted cheese, and fragrant herbs, it's a hearty side that will steal the spotlight at any meal.
Russet potatoes are the backbone of this casserole, providing a fluffy and starchy base that soaks up all the flavors. Whole milk adds creaminess without making the potatoes too rich. The unsalted butter not only adds richness but also carries the aromatic garlic flavor throughout. Cheddar cheese offers a sharp, tangy taste, while Parmesan cheese brings a salty umami depth. Chives and thyme provide fresh, herbal notes that cut through the richness. Finally, breadcrumbs create a delightful crispy topping, and a touch of salt and black pepper rounds everything out.
This casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted meats like chicken, beef, or lamb. It's also great alongside a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness. Consider serving it with a side of green beans or asparagus for a well-rounded plate.
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it's ready when you are. Peel and dice the russet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. This size ensures they cook evenly. Boil them in a large pot of salted water for about 20 minutes, or until they’re tender—just poke them with a fork to check.
While those are boiling away, grab a small saucepan and combine the whole milk, butter, and minced garlic. Warm them gently until the butter melts and the garlic becomes fragrant. This will infuse the butter with garlicky goodness, which is essential for flavor.
Once the potatoes are tender, drain them well and return them to the pot. Pour your garlic-butter mixture over the potatoes and mash everything together until smooth. You don’t want lumps here, unless you’re into that kind of rustic texture.
Now, stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, chives, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until the cheese has melted and everything is well combined. The warmth of the potatoes will do a lot of the melting work for you.
Transfer this cheesy, herby mixture into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, and then sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top—this will give you that coveted golden, crispy crust.
Bake in your preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and crispy. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving; it’ll be easier to cut and serve that way.
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