Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing comfort food dish, look no further than this Cheesy Potato Casserole. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, making it the perfect side dish for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or a cozy weeknight meal. Follow this easy recipe, and you’ll have a dish everyone will be asking for seconds of!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible casserole:
- 6 medium russet potatoes (peeled and diced)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (for topping)
Instructions
1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the Potatoes
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the diced potatoes and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender.
- Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Mix the Casserole Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Stir in the shredded cheese, leaving a little for topping.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine and Assemble
- Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the creamy mixture until they’re evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
5. Add the Topping
- Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese on top of the casserole.
- Mix the crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs) with 2 tablespoons of melted butter, then sprinkle over the cheese.
Pro Tip: If you love extra crunch, double the topping mixture for an even more satisfying crust.
6. Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy potato casserole pairs beautifully with:
- Roast chicken or turkey.
- Grilled steak or pork chops.
- A fresh green salad for a lighter contrast.
Pro Tip: Leftovers taste even better the next day! Reheat in the oven to preserve the crispy topping.
Variations to Try
- Add protein: Stir in cooked bacon bits, diced ham, or shredded chicken for a complete meal.
- Spice it up: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne for a kick of heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Swap cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
Storage and Reheating
- To store: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To freeze: Place in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- To reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Potato Casserole is a guaranteed hit for any occasion. Its creamy texture, cheesy flavor, and crispy topping make it a dish that stands out on any table. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner or bringing it to a potluck, prepare for the compliments to roll in!
