This Mashed Potato Chicken Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners. With layers of creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned ground chicken, and a cheesy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 400 g (14 oz) ground chicken
- ½ red bell pepper, diced
- 120 g (½ cup) canned corn, drained
- 30 g (2 tablespoons) butter (divided: 15 g + 15 g)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 100 g (1 cup) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 60 g (½ cup) all-purpose flour
- 1-2 tablespoons dill, chopped (or to taste)
- 45 ml (3 tablespoons) yogurt
- 1 garlic clove, minced
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 600 g (1.3 lb) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 50 g (3 tablespoons) butter
- 120 ml (½ cup) milk
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain and mash the potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and black pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet, melt 15 g of butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
- Stir in grated carrot and diced bell pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until softened.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Add the ground chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Stir well.
- Add Corn and Flour:
- Mix in the canned corn. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the mixture and stir until well incorporated.
- Create the Creamy Mixture:
- Add yogurt, half of the Parmesan cheese, and dill. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the filling thickens slightly.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a baking dish with the remaining butter. Spread the chicken mixture evenly on the bottom.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them smoothly over the filling.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and garnish with additional dill before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of steamed green beans or broccoli.
- Serve with a fresh green salad and a light vinaigrette.
- Add a slice of garlic bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes for a touch of spice.
- If the mashed potatoes seem too thick, add a splash of milk for creaminess.
Nutritional Benefits
- Potatoes: Rich in potassium and fiber.
- Chicken: High in protein and essential amino acids.
- Vegetables: Provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter and milk for the mashed potatoes and a dairy-free cheese substitute.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~350
- Protein: 20 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave.
- Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly balanced with protein, carbs, and vegetables.
- Easy to make and great for meal prep.
- Comforting and satisfying for the whole family.
- Versatile—customize with your favorite herbs or cheese.
Conclusion
This Mashed Potato Chicken Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a favorite comfort food. The creamy potatoes and savory chicken filling are topped with golden Parmesan, creating a dish that’s hard to resist. Perfect for any occasion, this casserole is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Yes, ground turkey is an excellent substitute.
- What other vegetables can I add? Zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms work well in this recipe.
- Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble it and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.
- What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese? Cheddar or Gruyère cheese are great alternatives.
- Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Substitute dairy-free butter, milk, and cheese.
- Can I use leftover mashed potatoes? Absolutely, it’s a great way to use leftovers.
- Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, freeze it before baking for up to 1 month.
- How do I prevent the mashed potatoes from drying out? Cover with foil while reheating to retain moisture.
- What side dishes pair well with this casserole? Serve with a green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes add a delicious twist.