Transform your weeknight dinner routine with this creamy and comforting Instant Potato Bake, a quick and easy twist on a classic side dish. Made with pantry staples like instant mashed potato flakes, sour cream, and two types of cheese—cheddar and parmesan—this recipe comes together in just 10 minutes of prep time. A golden breadcrumb crust adds the perfect touch of crunch, while hints of garlic powder and butter elevate the flavor. Perfect as a versatile side for family dinners, holiday feasts, or potluck gatherings, this dish serves six and bakes to bubbly perfection in under 30 minutes. Serve it warm from the oven, optionally garnished with fresh parsley, for a rich, satisfying crowd-pleaser.
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish.
In a medium saucepan, bring the water, milk, butter, salt, and pepper to a boil over medium-high heat.
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the instant potato flakes, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Add sour cream, garlic powder, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until everything is well combined.
Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese and the parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the potatoes.
In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with 1 tablespoon of melted butter or a drizzle of olive oil, then sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the cheese layer.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before garnishing with optional parsley and serving warm.
Calories |
2328 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 121.3 g | 156% | |
| Saturated Fat | 73.1 g | 366% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 354 mg | 118% | |
| Sodium | 4654 mg | 202% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 251.0 g | 91% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 18.1 g | 65% | |
| Total Sugars | 31.7 g | ||
| Protein | 72.5 g | 145% | |
| Vitamin D | 2.9 mcg | 15% | |
| Calcium | 1600 mg | 123% | |
| Iron | 5.0 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 2014 mg | 43% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.