Meta Description: This cheddar broccoli mashed potato casserole is a comforting, one-dish meal perfect for a cozy dinner. Learn how to make this easy, cheesy, and delicious recipe that’s a guaranteed family favorite.
I still remember the first time I made this dish. I was a bit skeptical. A casserole made from mashed potatoes sounded… well, a little strange. But I was craving something warm, cheesy, and hearty, and I had some leftover mashed potatoes, a head of broccoli, and a block of cheddar cheese in the fridge. I decided to throw caution to the wind and see what happened. I tossed everything into a baking dish with a little bit of milk and a generous amount of cheese. The result was an absolute revelation. The mashed potatoes became delightfully golden and crispy on top with a creamy, cheesy interior. The tender broccoli added a perfect balance of vegetables and a little bit of a crunch. It was a complete meal in one pan, and it felt like a warm hug on a plate.
This cheddar broccoli mashed potato casserole is my go-to recipe for those nights when you need a little comfort and a lot of flavor. It’s a dish that feels special and indulgent but is incredibly easy to make. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and its rich, savory flavor. The mashed potatoes, which are often a special-occasion meal, become a weeknight hero in this recipe. It’s a hearty, satisfying, and delicious meal that is a guaranteed family favorite. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, tender broccoli, and a rich, cheesy sauce is a classic for a reason.
Beyond its incredible taste, this cheddar mashed potato casserole is a fantastic solution for a busy weeknight. It’s a complete meal in one dish, which means minimal cleanup and more time for you to relax. It’s also incredibly versatile. You can swap out the vegetables, change the protein, or add your favorite toppings to make it your own. It’s a recipe that encourages creativity and personal touches. So, let’s get ready to build a delicious casserole that will become a new staple in your home.
✅ Ingredients for a Cheesy Bake
Creating this delicious cheddar broccoli mashed potato casserole requires a few key, high-quality ingredients. The final result is a combination of a variety of vegetables and a rich, creamy sauce.
For the Casserole
- Mashed Potatoes: 4 cups, cooked and prepared
- Broccoli Florets: 2 cups, fresh or frozen, chopped
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1.5 cups, divided
- Milk: 1/2 cup
- Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
- Optional Toppings:
- Cooked, Crumbled Bacon: 1/2 cup
- Crispy Fried Onions: 1/2 cup
- Fresh Chives: 2 tablespoons, chopped
⏰ Total Time and Equipment
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
You’ll need:
- A large mixing bowl
- A 9×13 inch baking dish
- A spatula or spoon for mixing
- A sharp knife and cutting board
📝 Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this cheddar broccoli mashed potato casserole is a process, but each step is simple and worth the effort.
- Prep Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray.
- Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, chopped broccoli, 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, salt, and pepper. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together until it is all combined.
- Assemble the Casserole: Pour the mashed potato mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chives, a few crumbled bacon bits, or a little extra shredded cheese if you’d like. Serve warm and enjoy your incredible cheddar mashed potato casserole!
🌟 Pro Tips and Delicious Variations
This cheddar broccoli mashed potato casserole is a wonderful canvas for your own creativity.
- Add a Protein Boost: To make this a more substantial meal, add some cooked, shredded chicken, a can of chickpeas, or some roasted vegetables. For a plant-based protein, add a can of drained and rinsed white beans to the mix.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few drops of sriracha to the mashed potato mixture. You can also use a spicy cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Different Veggies: You can easily add other vegetables to this casserole. Sautéed mushrooms, chopped onions, or a handful of spinach would all be delicious.
- Cheese Swaps: While cheddar is a classic choice, you can also use a different cheese. A combination of a few different cheeses would be delicious. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese on top would also be wonderful.
- Make It a Meal: If you’re short on time, you can turn this into a meal. Simply layer the ingredients in a baking dish without cooking the potatoes first. It’s less work but just as delicious.
❓ Answering Your Questions
- Can I use a different kind of potato? Yes, you can! You can use any kind of potato you love. A russet potato is a classic choice for mashed potatoes, but a Yukon Gold potato would also be delicious.
- Can I use frozen broccoli? Yes, absolutely! Just be sure to thaw it first and pat it dry. The recipe and cooking time remain the same.
- What’s the best way to get a smooth, non-clumpy mashed potato? The key is to use a potato masher or a potato ricer to mash the potatoes. You can also use a hand mixer for a smoother, fluffier texture.
- How do I know when the casserole is cooked through? The casserole should be golden brown and the cheese should be melted and bubbly. The edges should be firm to the touch.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a large batch and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s a great way to have a healthy breakfast ready to go all week long.
📊 Nutritional Information (Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (1/6 of recipe) |
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Fat | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 25 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on exact ingredients and portion sizes. For personalized dietary advice, please consult a qualified health professional.
🍽️ Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This cheddar broccoli mashed potato casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple additions.
- A Simple Side: Serve it alongside a grilled chicken breast, a pan-seared salmon fillet, or a hearty lentil soup.
- With Bread: A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for sopping up every last bit of delicious sauce.
- A Drink to Match: A cold beer, a crisp hard cider, or even a glass of sweet iced tea would be perfect pairings.
✨ The Joy of a Simple, Comforting Meal
There’s something truly special about a homemade casserole. It’s a dish that embodies comfort, warmth, and care. This cheddar broccoli mashed potato casserole takes that feeling to a whole new level, proving that a simple, one-pan meal can be just as satisfying and delicious as any classic. The process of layering and building the dish is meditative, and the final result is a beautiful, hearty casserole that is a treat for both the eyes and the stomach. It’s a dish that will earn you compliments and will make everyone at the table feel loved.
This recipe is a wonderful way to bring a little bit of the sunshine to your dinner table. It’s a dish that celebrates fresh flavors and simple cooking, and it’s a reliable go-to that will become a new favorite in your home. It’s the kind of meal that will earn you compliments and will make you feel good about what you’re eating. So, go on, give it a try. I’m confident you’ll fall in love with this vibrant, flavor-packed casserole. What are your favorite casserole toppings?