Creamy Whipped Potato Casserole

Potato dishes are a staple at nearly every family gathering, holiday meal, or Sunday dinner. They bring warmth, comfort, and satisfaction, and they have the remarkable ability to complement just about any main dish. One such beloved dish is the Creamy Whipped Potato Casserole. This dish takes traditional mashed potatoes to the next level by incorporating rich cream, butter, and a whipped texture that’s incredibly light and fluffy.

This Creamy Whipped Potato Casserole is perfect for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Easter, but it’s equally welcome at any weeknight dinner. It’s also ideal for potlucks or dinner parties because it can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it a stress-free addition to any meal.

What makes this casserole stand out from regular mashed potatoes is its unique airy texture. The potatoes are whipped with heavy cream and butter until light and fluffy, then baked with a crispy, golden-brown top. The result is a dish that’s creamy on the inside with just the right amount of crust on top. It’s a potato lover’s dream and a dish that will leave your guests begging for the recipe.

Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making this luxurious Creamy Whipped Potato Casserole—from the ingredients and instructions to variations, serving ideas, and helpful tips for making it perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Whipped Potato Casserole

1. Ultra Creamy Texture: The whipped potatoes are velvety smooth, thanks to the combination of heavy cream, butter, and a bit of cream cheese.
2. Light and Fluffy: By whipping the potatoes instead of mashing them, you achieve a lighter, airier texture that elevates the entire dish.
3. Golden, Crispy Top: Baking the casserole gives it a perfectly crispy, golden-brown top, which contrasts beautifully with the creamy interior.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly: This casserole can be prepared a day in advance, making it perfect for stress-free holiday meals or potlucks.
5. Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe to suit your family’s tastes by adding garlic, cheese, or fresh herbs to the mix.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 35-40 minutes
• Total time: 60 minutes
• Yield: 8-10 servings
• Serving Size: 1 scoop (about 1 cup)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Carbs: 34g
• Fat: 20g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 3g

(Nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)

Ingredients

For the Whipped Potatoes:

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed (you can also use russet potatoes for a fluffier texture)
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened (for extra creaminess)
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Chopped chives or parsley, for garnish (optional)

For the Topping:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (or a combination of Parmesan and cheddar for a cheesy topping)
• Breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Roasted garlic for a deeper flavor
• Cheddar or mozzarella cheese for extra cheesiness
• Crumbled bacon for a savory crunch
• Chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or chives for added freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel and Chop the Potatoes:

Begin by peeling the Yukon Gold potatoes and cutting them into evenly-sized cubes. Yukon Gold potatoes are preferred for this recipe because they’re naturally creamy and buttery, but you can also use russet potatoes for a lighter, fluffier texture.

2. Boil the Potatoes:

Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and simmer the potatoes for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.

3. Drain the Potatoes:

Once the potatoes are cooked through, drain them in a colander and return them to the pot. Allow the potatoes to steam for a minute or two to release any excess moisture.

Step 2: Whip the Potatoes

1. Add Cream and Butter:

While the potatoes are still hot, add the heavy cream, butter, and cream cheese to the pot. The heat from the potatoes will melt the butter and cream cheese, making them easier to incorporate.

2. Whip the Potatoes:

Using an electric mixer or a hand whisk, whip the potatoes until they are smooth and creamy. Start on low speed and gradually increase the speed as the potatoes become smoother. Be careful not to over-whip the potatoes, as this can make them gummy. You want them to be light and fluffy.

3. Add Sour Cream and Seasonings:

Stir in the sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Taste the potatoes and adjust the seasoning as needed. The sour cream adds a tangy richness to the potatoes, while the garlic and onion powders enhance their flavor.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Transfer to a Baking Dish:

Spoon the whipped potato mixture into a lightly greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Use the back of the spatula to create decorative swirls or ridges on the surface of the potatoes—these will crisp up beautifully in the oven.

2. Add the Topping:

Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the whipped potatoes. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan evenly over the surface. For an extra crunchy topping, you can also sprinkle a handful of breadcrumbs on top.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Bake:

Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. If you want an extra crispy top, turn on the broiler for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

3. Cool Slightly:

Once the casserole is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to scoop.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the casserole with chopped fresh chives or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm as a side dish for your favorite holiday meals or weeknight dinners.

How to Serve

• With a Roast: This casserole pairs perfectly with roast turkey, beef, chicken, or pork. Serve it alongside a generous ladle of gravy for the ultimate comfort food experience.
• As a Potluck Dish: This is a fantastic dish for potlucks or family gatherings. It’s easy to transport and stays warm for a long time, making it ideal for serving a crowd.
• With Vegetables: Pair the casserole with roasted or sautéed vegetables like green beans, Brussels sprouts, or carrots for a balanced meal.
• With a Salad: Serve this creamy potato casserole alongside a crisp green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

Additional Tips for Success

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure the butter, cream, and cream cheese are at room temperature before adding them to the potatoes. This ensures they blend smoothly and evenly into the whipped potatoes.
2. Avoid Over-Whipping: Be careful not to over-whip the potatoes, as this can cause them to become gluey or gummy. Whip them just until they’re light and fluffy, and avoid using a food processor, which can overwork the starches in the potatoes.
3. Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to mix in shredded cheddar, gruyère, or mozzarella into the whipped potatoes before baking for an extra cheesy casserole.
4. Make It Ahead: This casserole can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes before placing it in the oven.
5. Reheat Gently: To reheat leftovers, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, though the texture will be best if reheated in the oven.

Recipe Variations

While this Creamy Whipped Potato Casserole is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas:

1. Garlic Parmesan Potato Casserole:

Add roasted garlic to the potatoes for a deeper, more robust flavor. Mix in extra Parmesan cheese for a rich, cheesy finish. Garnish with chopped parsley for a bit of freshness.

2. Cheesy Bacon Potato Casserole:

Fold in crisp, crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese into the whipped potatoes before baking. Top with additional cheddar cheese for an ooey-gooey, cheesy topping that’s irresistible.

3. Herb-Infused Potato Casserole:

For a fresh, herby twist, mix in chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and chives into the potato mixture. The herbs will add a beautiful fragrance and depth of flavor to the dish.

4. Vegan Potato Casserole:

To make this casserole vegan, substitute the heavy cream, butter, and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives. Coconut cream, vegan butter, and vegan cream cheese work beautifully in this recipe and still give the potatoes that creamy texture.

5. Sweet Potato Casserole:

Swap out Yukon Gold or russet potatoes for sweet potatoes for a sweet and savory variation of this casserole. The natural sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the creamy, whipped texture.

Freezing and Storage

Storing Leftovers:

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.

Freezing the Casserole:

This casserole can be frozen either before or after baking. To freeze before baking, assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

If freezing after baking, let the casserole cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Reheating Tips:

To reheat from frozen, bake the casserole in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until completely warmed through.

Special Equipment

• Electric mixer or hand whisk: For whipping the potatoes to a light and fluffy texture.
• Large pot: For boiling the potatoes.
• 9×13-inch baking dish: The perfect size for this casserole, allowing the potatoes to bake evenly and develop a crispy top.
• Potato masher: If you prefer to mash the potatoes instead of whipping them, a potato masher will come in handy.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of potato?

Yes! Yukon Gold potatoes are recommended for their creamy texture, but you can also use russet potatoes for a fluffier casserole. Red potatoes or a mix of different potato varieties will work as well.

2. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?

Absolutely! You can use coconut cream, vegan butter, and vegan cream cheese in place of the dairy ingredients for a dairy-free version. The texture will remain creamy and delicious.

3. Can I add cheese to the casserole?

Yes! Feel free to stir in your favorite shredded cheeses like cheddar, gruyère, or mozzarella into the whipped potatoes for a cheesy variation. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking for a golden, melty finish.

4. How far in advance can I make this casserole?

This casserole can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the dish and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, let the casserole sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed.

5. Can I use a food processor to whip the potatoes?

It’s best to avoid using a food processor to whip the potatoes, as it can overwork the starches in the potatoes and make them gummy. Stick to an electric mixer or a hand whisk for the best results.

Conclusion

This Creamy Whipped Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the best qualities of creamy mashed potatoes with the indulgence of a baked casserole. The whipped texture is light and airy, while the golden, crispy top adds the perfect amount of contrast. Whether you’re serving this at a holiday meal, a family gathering, or a casual weeknight dinner, it’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

The flexibility of this recipe makes it a winner—you can easily customize it with different cheeses, herbs, or add-ins like bacon or roasted garlic. Plus, its make-ahead and freezer-friendly nature makes it perfect for busy cooks who want to get ahead on their meal prep.

No matter how you serve it, this Creamy Whipped Potato Casserole is sure to be a favorite at your table. So, whip up a batch, dig in, and enjoy every creamy, fluffy bite!

Print