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This cheesy mashed potato casserole brings all the comforts of a family dinner together in a single dish. Creamy homemade potatoes are layered with sweet corn and gooey cheddar cheese then finished with crispy chicken and a savory brown gravy. It is the kind of meal that checks every comfort box and saves time on busy evenings.
This meal became a weeknight staple in my house when my oldest begged for something cozy yet quick after soccer practice. Now even the pickiest eaters get excited for casserole night.
Ingredients
- Mashed potatoes: Soft and creamy the base should be homemade if possible but store bought mashed potatoes work fine too. Look for ones free from artificial flavors for best taste.
- Corn: Adds a burst of sweetness and color. Frozen or canned corn both work just make sure it is drained and patted dry.
- Cheddar cheese: Freshly grated melts creamier and selects a sharp cheddar for the most flavor.
- Chicken tenders: Crispy store bought strips save time or try making homemade chicken tenders for extra crunch and flavor.
- Brown gravy: Homemade gravy gives rich depth but a quality store bought packet is perfectly acceptable if you are short on time.
Step by Step Instructions
- Prep the Oven:
- Set your oven to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit so it gets hot while you assemble everything.
- Soften the Chicken:
- Leave frozen chicken at room temperature for about five minutes. This helps you slice them more easily if you’d like bite sized pieces across the casserole.
- Layer the Potatoes:
- Spread mashed potatoes smoothly across the bottom of a nine by thirteen inch casserole dish. If they are cold warm them in the microwave so they are easier to spread and taste creamy after baking.
- Add the Corn and Cheese:
- Scatter the corn evenly over the potatoes. Follow up with a layer of freshly grated cheddar cheese to help everything bind together.
- Top with Chicken:
- Use a sharp knife to slice the chicken tenders into desired size pieces. Arrange them attractively over the casserole.
- Bake Until Bubbling:
- Place the dish uncovered in the oven. Bake for twenty minutes if using frozen pre cooked tenders or fifteen minutes for homemade chicken. You are looking for golden cheese and bubbling edges.
- Make the Gravy:
- While the casserole bakes prepare brown gravy on the stovetop so it is ready to drizzle as soon as the casserole comes out.
- Serve Hot:
- Pour the hot gravy generously over the fresh from the oven casserole and scoop into bowls while everything is still steamy.
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My favorite part is always the crispy chicken pieces that soak up the hot gravy as soon as it hits the plate. My daughter still asks for extra chicken on her slice every time and I cannot blame her.
Storage Tips
Cool the casserole completely before covering tightly with aluminum foil or transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you plan to freeze make sure all ingredients have cooled completely and use a freezer safe dish for best texture.
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap sharp cheddar for Colby Jack Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you want a milder flavor. Leftover turkey or rotisserie chicken can stand in for tenders. Try using a mixture of frozen veggies like peas and carrots in place of just corn for more color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Pile portions high on plates and add a sprinkle of chopped chives or parsley for color. Serve with a green salad or roasted broccoli for extra veggies at dinner. A dollop of sour cream or an extra drizzle of gravy make every bite creamier.
Family Traditions
This casserole always turns up around the holidays in our house. My kids associate it with weekends when we all come together at the table. My mom adds a layer of stuffing crumbs for a Thanksgiving twist that everyone loves.
Common Queries
- → Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken instead of chicken tenders?
Absolutely! Chopped rotisserie or leftover cooked chicken works well for topping the casserole and makes prep even faster.
- → How can I make the mashed potatoes even creamier?
Mix in a bit of cream cheese, sour cream, or extra butter while mashing your potatoes for added richness and smooth texture.
- → Is it possible to assemble this in advance?
Yes, assemble everything except the chicken and keep covered in the fridge. Add chicken and bake when ready to serve.
- → Which cheese melts best for the topping?
Freshly grated cheddar melts smoothly, but you can also use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- → Can I use frozen corn or other vegetables?
Frozen or canned corn both work well. You may also add peas or mixed vegetables for color and nutrition.
- → What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Cover with foil and bake at 350°F until hot, or reheat portions in the microwave. Add a little extra gravy if desired.