This creamy baked potato casserole is a delightful twist on classic mashed potatoes, perfect for any family gathering or dinner.
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Always preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
Peel and boil the potatoes until tender, then drain them.
Cut the potatoes into smaller pieces to reduce boiling time.
Mash the potatoes until smooth using a potato masher.
For extra smooth potatoes, use a ricer instead of a masher.
In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, sour cream, and milk until smooth.
Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
Mix the creamy mixture into the mashed potatoes and season with pepper to taste.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Transfer the potato mixture into a greased 9x9 casserole dish.
Spread the mixture evenly for consistent baking.
Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with paprika.
For a golden crust, use a mix of butter and breadcrumbs.
Bake in the oven for 1 hour or until the top is golden brown.
Check the casserole halfway through to ensure even browning.
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
Allowing it to cool helps the flavors settle and makes serving easier.
