Cheesy Potato Mash Casserole

Delight in the rich and creamy flavors of this delectable Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole, a comforting dish that seamlessly marries the hearty goodness of mashed potatoes with the tangy notes of various cheeses. With reduced-fat cream cheese, yogurt, cheddar cheese, blue cheese, and Parmesan, this casserole offers a sumptuous medley of textures and tastes. Using the innovation of an air fryer, this recipe ensures your casserole gets a golden crust while retaining its luscious interior. In just over an hour, you can relish a satisfying dish that’s perfect for gatherings and family meals.

Preparation time: 25 min

Cooking time: 1 hr 10 min

Servings: 24

INGREDIENTS:

• Chives, fresh, chopped (1 teaspoon)
• Cream cheese, reduced fat, softened (3 ounces)
• Yogurt, plain, fat-free (1 cup)
• Cheddar cheese, reduced fat, shredded (1 cup)
• Paprika (1/4 teaspoon)
• White potatoes, peeled, cubed (5 pounds)
• Blue cheese, crumbled (1/4 cup)
• Parmesan cheese, shredded (1/4 cup)
• Garlic salt (1 teaspoon)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Place the peeled and cubed white potatoes in a saucepan filled with water. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the potatoes for fifteen to eighteen minutes or until they are tender enough to be easily mashed.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat together the cream cheese, plain yogurt, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled blue cheese until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
3. Stir in the chopped fresh chives, paprika, and garlic salt to the cheese mixture. This will infuse the mixture with delightful flavors.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius).
5. Once the potatoes are fully cooked, drain them and mash them until they are smooth and lump-free.
6. Gently fold the cheese mixture into the mashed potatoes until well incorporated. Ensure a uniform distribution of the cheese mixture.
7. Transfer the mashed potato and cheese mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
8. Place the baking dish in the preheated air fryer and air-fry for thirty-five to forty minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
9. Once cooked, carefully remove the Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole from the air fryer.
10. Divide the casserole into servings and savor the velvety, cheesy indulgence.

TIPS:

• Choose waxy white potatoes like Yukon Gold for a creamy texture when mashed.
• While cooking the potatoes, keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can lead to waterlogged potatoes.
• For a bolder flavor, consider using aged cheddar and high-quality blue cheese.
• Ensure the cream cheese is softened to make it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
• Beat the cheese mixture until it’s smooth and well-incorporated for a uniform texture in your casserole.
• Adjust the amount of garlic salt to suit your taste preferences.
• When mashing the potatoes, avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a gluey consistency.
• To create an even, golden crust, spread the mashed potato mixture evenly in the baking dish.

NUTRITION INFORMATION (per serving):

• Calories: 110
• Fat: 2.5g
• Protein: 4.0g
• Carbohydrates: 18.0g

Elevate your dining experience with this Cheesy Mashed Potato Casserole, where the comforting creaminess of mashed potatoes is elevated with a medley of cheeses. With the innovative touch of an air fryer, this dish achieves the perfect balance of a tender interior and a golden, crispy crust. It’s a delightful choice for gatherings, potlucks, or any occasion that calls for comforting and flavorful food.