Save A tangy, creamy casserole featuring fluffy mashed potatoes studded with chopped dill pickles and fresh herbs, baked to golden perfection. A unique twist on classic comfort food.
The first time I made this Dill Pickle Mashed Potato Bake, I was surprised how much my family loved the unique flavor combination. The pickles and fresh dill brighten up the potatoes in a way that makes everyone ask for seconds.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- Salt (for boiling water): 1 tablespoon
- Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons
- Whole milk: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Sour cream: 120 g (1/2 cup)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Dill pickles: 120 g (3/4 cup), finely chopped
- Pickle brine: 2 tablespoons
- Fresh dill: 2 tablespoons, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- Spring onions: 2, thinly sliced
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 80 g (3/4 cup)
- Unsalted butter (melted): 2 tablespoons
Instructions
- Prep & Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 23x33 cm (9x13 inch) baking dish.
- Boil Potatoes:
- Place potatoes in a large pot. Cover with cold water, add 1 tablespoon salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until fork-tender, 15 to 18 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash Potatoes:
- Return drained potatoes to the pot. Add butter and mash until smooth.
- Mix Ingredients:
- Stir in milk, sour cream, eggs, chopped dill pickles, pickle brine, fresh dill, spring onions, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until creamy and well combined.
- Assemble Bake:
- Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and smooth top.
- Add Topping:
- Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over top. Drizzle with melted butter.
- Bake:
- Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Rest & Serve:
- Remove from oven and let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with extra dill and serve warm.
Save This bake has become a fun new tradition for Sunday dinners. Even my kids who claim to hate pickles enjoy the burst of flavor in every bite, and we often laugh about whose portion has the most ‘pickle power’.
Serving Ideas
Dish it out with roasted meats, grilled sausages, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. It can also stand alone as a comforting vegetarian main.
Flavor Variations
For extra tang, add a tablespoon of Dijon mustard with the mash. Try Monterey Jack or Gruyère cheese for a different cheesy finish.
Nutritional Info
Per serving: 305 calories, 15 g total fat, 36 g carbohydrates, 8 g protein.
Save Give your next dinner a flavor boost with this tangy mash — it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy warm, garnished with lots of fresh dill!
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of potato?
Yes, Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes work best for a fluffy, creamy texture.
- → What is the purpose of pickle brine in the dish?
Pickle brine adds an extra layer of tangy flavor that enhances the dill pickles' brightness.
- → How can I make the topping more flavorful?
Try swapping cheddar for Gruyère or Monterey Jack cheese for varied taste profiles.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate before baking; bake just before serving for best results.
- → What can I serve alongside this dish?
This pairs well with roasted meats, grilled sausages, or as part of a vegetarian meal with a fresh salad.