Mash Potato Casserole
A hearty mashed potato casserole with leeks, prosciutto, spinach, and Parmesan, baked to perfection with a cheesy topping—ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake the potatoes until tender. Remove pulp and reserve in a bowl.
- Saute the minced leeks and prosciutto in 1 stick of butter for 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped frozen spinach and grated Parmesan cheese to the leeks and prosciutto mixture.
- Mash the cooked potatoes with 1/2 stick of butter, sour cream, and hot milk.
- Add the leeks mixture to the mashed potatoes, then season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a buttered casserole dish, cover, and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 30 minutes. Top with Jarlsburg cheese before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, add more sour cream or a splash of heavy cream to the mashed potatoes. If you're short on time, using pre-cooked potatoes or even instant mashed potatoes can be a great shortcut. You can substitute the prosciutto with cooked bacon or omit it for a vegetarian version. This dish is versatile, so feel free to incorporate other vegetables like broccoli flowerets for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This mash potato casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. It's perfect as a side dish for roasted meats or grilled chicken, making it a great addition to any gathering. For a comforting brunch option, serve alongside an Easy Oven Omelet for a satisfying start to the day.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover mash potato casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mash Potato Casserole contains roughly 1524 calories, with 27g protein, 172g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (97% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (89% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 644mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble it up to the baking stage, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be starting cold.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use grated Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that the taste and texture will vary slightly, but it will still be delicious.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this mash potato casserole can easily be made gluten-free by ensuring that the ingredients, particularly the prosciutto and any added seasonings, are gluten-free. Always double-check labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten sources.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).