Description

Looking for a comforting dish that screams Midwest? This Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken is your answer. Packed with creamy mashed potatoes, savory corn, and gooey cheddar cheese, topped with crispy chicken tenders and smothered in rich brown gravy, it’s the ultimate comfort food for chilly days.

Ingredients

o recreate this heartwarming dish, gather:

5–6 cups mashed potatoes
1 cup corn
1 cup freshly grated cheddar cheese
8 chicken tenders (frozen or homemade)
Brown gravy (homemade or from a packet)

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken:

Preheat Your Oven: Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure a perfect bake.
Prepare Your Chicken: If using frozen chicken tenders, allow them to sit at room temperature for about 5 minutes to soften. Optionally, slice them into smaller pieces for easier serving.
Layer Your Casserole: Begin by spreading the mashed potatoes evenly on the bottom of a 9 x 13 casserole dish. Pro tip: If your mashed potatoes are cold, warm them before use.
Add Corn and Cheese: Sprinkle corn and freshly grated cheddar cheese over the layer of mashed potatoes, ensuring even distribution.
Top with Chicken Tenders: Carefully arrange the chicken tenders on top of the casserole, covering the potatoes, corn, and cheese.
Bake to Perfection: Bake the uncovered casserole in the preheated oven for 20 minutes if using frozen chicken tenders, or 15 minutes if using homemade ones.
Prepare the Gravy: While the casserole bakes, prepare your brown gravy on the stovetop according to package instructions or your own recipe.
Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, drizzle your desired amount of warm gravy over the casserole and serve hot. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic Midwest dish!

Notes

Serving Tips:

Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a fresh touch.
Pair with Greens: Serve alongside a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
Complete the Meal: Add dinner rolls or garlic bread on the side for a hearty dinner experience.
Individual Servings: Scoop portions into individual dishes for a personalized presentation.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the casserole for longer storage. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for up to 1 month.
Reheating: To reheat, place the desired portion in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for quick reheating.

Additional Tips:

Make Ahead: Prepare the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from chilled.
Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated cheddar cheese and homemade mashed potatoes.