If you’re searching for a comforting, creamy dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you have to try this Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe. Combining tender shredded potatoes with a melty cheese blend and a rich sour cream base, it’s the kind of dish that makes everyone gather around with smiles. The golden, buttery crunch on top gives just the right contrast to the soft interior, making it an instant favorite perfect for everything from holiday dinners to casual potlucks.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting your hands on some simple, staple ingredients is all you need to make this Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe a success. Each element plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color so your casserole comes out irresistible every time.
- Frozen shredded hash browns (30 oz): The star base of the dish, providing that classic tender but sturdy potato texture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Adds creamy, sharp, and melty goodness throughout the casserole.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Gives a luscious tang and rich moisture that balances the cheese and potatoes.
- Condensed cream of chicken soup (10.5 oz can): Acts as a flavorful binder and contributes to the creamy consistency; vegetarian options can swap with cream of mushroom.
- Melted butter (1/2 cup): Infuses the casserole with buttery richness and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a subtle, aromatic punch improving the overall depth of flavor.
- Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances the savory notes, complementing the potatoes beautifully.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Perfect seasonings to brighten and balance all the flavors.
- Crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers (1 cup): Creates a delightful crispy topping that contrasts the creamy interior.
- Melted butter for topping (2 tablespoons): Helps the topping achieve that irresistible golden crunch.
How to Make Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish. This ensures your casserole won’t stick and will bake evenly, setting you up for success right from the beginning.
Step 2: Mix Your Base Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the thawed shredded hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, ½ cup melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together thoroughly until the mixture is well blended, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and creaminess.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread the combined mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish. Spreading it out helps the casserole cook uniformly and allows every forkful to deliver that perfect balance of potato and cheese.
Step 4: Prepare and Add the Crunchy Topping
In a small bowl, toss the crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter to coat them well. Then sprinkle this topping evenly over your casserole base. This step is crucial for that signature buttery, golden crust that makes the dish so irresistible.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until it’s bubbling hot and the topping has turned a gorgeous golden brown. Once done, allow it to rest for 5 to 10 minutes—this helps the casserole set nicely so it’s easier to serve and perfect for savoring.
How to Serve Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped green onions or crispy bacon bits can add an exciting pop of flavor and color. These garnishes not only elevate the look but complement the rich creaminess of the casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, a crisp green salad, or even alongside your favorite grilled meats. The creamy, cheesy texture makes it ideal to balance out lighter or simply prepared side dishes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in mini ramekins topped with fresh herbs. Or transform leftovers into loaded potato casserole muffins perfect for brunch or a grab-and-go snack. Presentation ideas like these can turn this humble favorite into a show-stopping crowd pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cheesy potato casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a convenient option for meal prepping or enjoying next-day comfort without extra cooking.
Freezing
You can freeze the casserole either before baking or after it has cooled post-baking. Wrap it tightly with foil and plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn, and it will last up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat portions in the microwave for quick warmth, or better yet, pop the leftover casserole into a 350°F oven until heated through and crispy on top. This revives all the cheesy, crunchy goodness just like freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, but you’ll need to shred, rinse, and squeeze out excess moisture from the fresh potatoes to avoid a watery casserole. Frozen hash browns are super convenient and save time with consistent texture.
Is there a vegetarian version of this casserole?
Absolutely! Swap the cream of chicken soup for condensed cream of mushroom soup, and your casserole becomes fully vegetarian while still delightfully creamy and flavorful.
Can I add extra ingredients like ham or vegetables?
Definitely! Adding diced ham, cooked bacon, or chopped green onions can boost the flavor and add some textural interest, making this recipe very versatile to your taste.
How do I make the topping extra crunchy?
Using buttery crackers instead of cornflakes or tossing your topping mix with a bit more melted butter can create an extra crisp, golden crust that everyone will love.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
The oven method is best—cover the casserole loosely with foil to retain moisture, and heat at 350°F until warmed through. This keeps the casserole creamy and the topping crisp.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, this Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself making again and again because it’s just that comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re gathering with family or need a hearty side for any occasion, this casserole delivers warmth, cheesy goodness, and a crispy topping that’s pure joy. So grab those simple ingredients, get cooking, and prepare to fall in love with every cheesy, creamy bite!
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Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy potato casserole is a creamy, comforting dish made with tender shredded potatoes, melty cheddar cheese, and a rich sour cream base. Topped with a buttery, golden crunch of crushed cornflakes or crackers, this crowd-pleasing classic is perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or cozy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns (thawed)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 (10.5 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the thawed shredded hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper thoroughly until well incorporated.
- Spread mixture in dish: Transfer the combined potato mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula for even baking.
- Prepare and add topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes or buttery crackers with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the potato casserole to create a crispy, buttery topping.
- Bake the casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the topping turns golden brown and crispy.
- Rest before serving: Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes to set and cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes it easier to portion.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
- Add chopped ham, crispy bacon, or chopped green onions to the potato mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Leftovers can be reheated well in the microwave or oven, making this dish a perfect make-ahead side.
- Ensure the hash browns are fully thawed to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
