There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that brings together simple, wholesome ingredients into one delightful dish. This Cheesy Mashed Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe is my absolute favorite go-to for those cozy family dinners or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Creamy mashed potatoes marry perfectly with tender baked broccoli, all wrapped up in a blanket of gooey cheddar cheese. It’s a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that’ll have everyone asking for seconds and maybe even thirds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering ingredients for this casserole is refreshingly straightforward, but every item plays a crucial role. From the creamy Yukon Gold potatoes to the fresh broccoli, and the sharp cheddar cheese, each adds its own magic to create the perfect harmony of taste, color, and texture.
- Broccoli florets (12 ounces): Fresh or frozen, the broccoli adds vibrant green color and a subtle crunch that balances the creaminess.
- Olive oil (2 Tbsp): Helps roast the broccoli to bring out a rich, slightly nutty flavor.
- Yukon Gold potatoes (6 small-medium): Their buttery texture makes for the creamiest mashed potatoes.
- Butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness and depth to the mashed potatoes.
- Milk (1/2 cup): Keeps the potatoes smooth and dreamy without being too heavy.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the mash with a gentle kick of savory warmth.
- Chopped parsley (1/4 cup): Freshens up the dish with a bright, herby note.
- Chopped green onion (1/4 cup): Adds a subtle bite and pops of green.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (7 ounces): Melts beautifully for that irresistible cheesy topping and mix.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all other flavors into balance.
How to Make Cheesy Mashed Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Everything for Success
Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF. While it warms up, get your potatoes peeled and chopped, broccoli cut into bite-size florets, garlic minced, and herbs prepped. Preparing all your ingredients ahead will make the cooking flow effortlessly.
Step 2: Cook Your Potatoes Tender
Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and fill it with enough water to cover them. Cover the pot and bring to a boil, then turn the heat down to a simmer. Let the potatoes cook for about 15 minutes or until easily pierced with a fork, signaling they’re ready for mashing.
Step 3: Roast the Broccoli to Perfection
Toss your broccoli florets with olive oil, salt, and pepper directly in a large casserole dish. Spread everything out evenly so every floret can get a little love in the oven. Roast for 15 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright and slightly crisp.
Step 4: Mash Potatoes with Love
Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mash everything together until creamy and smooth. Now, stir in the chopped parsley and green onions—these little bursts of freshness transform the mashed potatoes from good to unforgettable.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Carefully combine your creamy mashed potatoes with the roasted broccoli right in the casserole dish. Stir them together so the flavors mingle well. Then, fold in half of your shredded cheddar cheese for extra melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Step 6: Bake Your Cheesy Mashed Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Spread the mixture evenly in your baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Pop it in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese on top bubbles and turns that perfect golden brown. Serve it fresh and relish every comforting bite!
How to Serve Cheesy Mashed Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up this casserole with extra chopped green onions or fresh parsley sprinkled right before serving. A light dusting of smoked paprika or a sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs can also add a nice touch of texture and color.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands out on its own but pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a simple green salad. The cheesy, creamy base complements protein-rich mains, making your meal both balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive occasion, serve the casserole in individual ramekins for personal portions. You can also layer in some caramelized onions or crisp bacon bits between the mashed potatoes and broccoli for an extra flavor twist that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. The flavors even meld and improve after a day or two, making great next-day lunches or dinners.
Freezing
This casserole freezes well for up to 2 months. Make sure to cool completely, then cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven at 350ºF, covered with foil to prevent drying. Heat until warmed through and cheese is melted again, around 20–25 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli for this casserole?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture from frozen broccoli before roasting to avoid a watery casserole.
What type of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar is classic here for its melting quality and tangy flavor, but feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack or a mild mozzarella for a different twist.
Can this dish be made dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative, use dairy-free milk, and try a vegan cheese to make a delicious dairy-free version.
Is there a way to add more protein to the casserole?
Adding cooked, diced chicken or crumbled cooked sausage before baking can easily boost the protein content and turn this side dish into a hearty main.
How do I prevent the casserole from becoming watery?
Be sure to drain your potatoes well and roast the broccoli to remove excess water. Also, avoid adding too much milk; mash the potatoes to your desired consistency with just enough milk to stay creamy.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Mashed Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe has a special place in my heart because it’s both comforting and simple enough to whip up anytime. The combination of creamy potatoes, tender broccoli, and bubbly cheese creates a dish that’s equally loved by kids and adults. I encourage you to give it a try, invite your loved ones around, and watch this casserole become a new family favorite. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
Cheesy Mashed Potato Broccoli Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Mashed Potato Broccoli Casserole is an easy and comforting side dish featuring creamy garlic mashed potatoes combined with roasted broccoli and plenty of melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday meals, this casserole brings together the classic flavors of buttery potatoes, fresh herbs, and savory cheese baked to bubbly perfection.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 12 ounces broccoli florets, chopped into small pieces (approx. 340 grams or one medium-sized head)
- 6 small-medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped (approx. 1200 grams or 2.5 pounds)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped green onion
Dairy & Oils
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 7 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (approx. 200 grams or just over 2 cups)
Seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, peel and chop the potatoes, chop the broccoli into small florets, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley and green onions.
- Cook Potatoes: Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Cover the pot with a lid and bring the water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook covered for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Cook Broccoli: Spread the chopped broccoli in a large casserole or baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, then season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly and arrange in a single layer. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes to roast the broccoli slightly. Remove from the oven once done.
- Mash Potatoes: Drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Using a potato masher, mash the mixture until smooth and creamy. Fold in the chopped parsley and green onion. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Combine Casserole: Add the mashed potatoes to the casserole dish with the roasted broccoli. Stir gently to combine evenly. Mix in half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Spread the mixture evenly in the baking dish, then sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake Casserole: Return the casserole dish to the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is fully melted and bubbly. Serve the casserole hot as a flavorful side dish.
Notes
- For extra creaminess, you can add a splash more milk when mashing the potatoes.
- Prefer a sharper flavor? Use sharp cheddar cheese or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack.
- You can substitute Yukon Gold potatoes with Russet potatoes, though texture may vary slightly.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and reheated covered in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- To add crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.
