Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole – Looking for a comforting. And a delicious dinner option? This Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole is a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish. That brings together fluffy mashed potatoes, tender chicken, sweet corn, and melted cheddar cheese. All topped off with rich brown gravy. It’s an easy recipe. That’s perfect for family dinners. Or potlucks. Offering a satisfying meal. In just 45 minutes.
The first time I made this Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole. I was in a hurry. To get dinner on the table. My husband and child. Were both exhausted from a long day. And I wanted to make something. That would bring everyone together. With its comforting warmth. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, tender chicken, and that cheesy, gravy-topped goodness. Instantly became a family favorite. Now, it’s our go-to meal. Whenever we need a quick, comforting dinner. That feels like a warm hug.
What makes this Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole truly special?
This casserole is the ultimate comfort food. Combining the richness of creamy mashed potatoes. With the savory goodness of chicken tenders, corn, and cheddar cheese. The best part? It’s versatile! You can use homemade mashed potatoes. And chicken tenders. For a from-scratch feel. Or opt for store-bought versions. When time is tight. The addition of brown gravy on top. Makes this dish extra indulgent. Creating a meal. That’s both hearty and satisfying.
What You Need To Make This Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole Recipe?
Mashed Potatoes: Use your favorite homemade recipe. To give the casserole a personal touch. If using store-bought. Warming them up beforehand. Ensures the casserole bakes evenly.
Corn: Fresh or frozen works well here. The sweetness of the corn. Pairs beautifully with the savory elements.
Cheddar Cheese: Freshly grated cheddar. Adds a sharp, creamy flavor. That ties the dish together. For a milder taste. Opt for a blend of cheeses.
Chicken Tenders: Homemade chicken tenders elevate the dish. But frozen ones are convenient. And still delicious. Slicing them after softening at room temperature. Makes it easier to distribute evenly.
Brown Gravy: Whether you make it from scratch. Or use a packet. The gravy adds a rich, comforting finish to the casserole.
Steps To Make Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating the oven to 400°F.
Step 2: Prep the Chicken: If you’re using frozen chicken tenders. Let them sit at room temperature. For about 5 minutes to soften. This will make slicing them easier. If you prefer smaller pieces in your casserole.
Step 3: Prepare the Base: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly. At the bottom of a 9 x 13 casserole dish. If your mashed potatoes are cold. Give them a quick warm-up. To ensure everything cooks evenly.
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Step 4: Layer the Goodness: Top the potatoes with a layer of corn. And then sprinkle the freshly grated cheddar cheese on top.
Step 5: Add the Chicken: Carefully slice the chicken tenders into bite-sized pieces. Then distribute them over the casserole.
Step 6: Bake: Place the casserole in the oven. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. If you’re using frozen chicken tenders. Or 15 minutes if you’re using homemade ones.
Step 7: Prepare the Gravy: While the casserole is baking. Prepare your gravy on the stovetop. According to the packet instructions. Or your homemade recipe.
Step 8: Finish and Serve: Once the casserole is done. Drizzle your desired amount of gravy over the top. And serve hot. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness!
Tip:
For a richer flavor. Use homemade mashed potatoes. Made with cream and butter. If you’re short on time. Opt for store-bought mashed potatoes. But make sure to warm them up. Before layering in the casserole. To ensure even cooking. When it comes to the chicken tenders. If you’re using frozen. Let them soften slightly at room temperature before slicing. This not only makes them easier to cut. But also helps them cook more evenly. Lastly, don’t skip the gravy. It ties all the flavors together. Into a comforting, savory dish.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the casserole ahead of time. And store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold. When you put it in the oven.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs well with a simple green salad, and steamed veggies. Or a slice of crusty bread. To soak up all that delicious gravy.
Can I substitute the chicken tenders with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground beef, turkey, or even tofu can be used. Instead of chicken tenders. For a different take on this classic dish.
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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
<Remember it later>
Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!
Creamy Mashed Potato Casserole
Ingredients
- 5-6 c mashed potatoes my homemade version is portioned for this recipe
- 1 c corn
- 1 c cheddar cheese freshly grated
- 8 chicken tenders I prefer my homemade recipe, but frozen may be used
- Brown gravy you can also use a packet
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Heat your oven to 400°F.
- Prepare Chicken: If using frozen chicken tenders. Let them sit out for about 5 minutes to soften slightly. Making them easier to slice.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly in a 9 x 13 casserole dish. Top with corn and grated cheddar cheese. Slice the chicken tenders. And arrange them on top.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20 minutes. If using frozen tenders. Or 15 minutes if using homemade.
- Add Gravy: Prepare the gravy. While the casserole bakes. Drizzle the gravy over the casserole before serving.
Notes
I’m Bitty, owner of nodashofgluten.com, where I share simple, delicious recipes for all tastes, including gluten-free. Check out my “About Me” page for more info!
