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If you’re on the lookout for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with just the right amount of seasoning, it combines tender potatoes with a rich sauce that bakes into bubbly perfection, topped with a satisfyingly crunchy crust that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Easy to make yet delightfully impressive, this recipe brings together simple pantry staples to create a dish that’s perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe plays a crucial role — from the creamy sharp cheddar cheese that adds bold flavor to the russet potatoes that provide a perfect, fluffy base. Together, these ingredients create a harmony of taste and texture that makes this dish truly unforgettable.
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced: These hearty potatoes provide the perfect tender bite once cooked and mixed with the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar brings the rich, cheesy flavor that defines this casserole.
- 1 cup sour cream: Adds luscious creaminess and a slight tang to balance the cheese.
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Helps bind everything together while boosting the moist texture.
- 1/2 cup milk: Lightens the sauce and keeps the mixture luscious but not dense.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Infuses a subtle richness that melts perfectly into the sauce.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Introduces a gentle depth of savory flavor that enhances the potatoes.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Complements the garlic with a mild sweetness and aroma.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Adds just enough heat to keep every bite interesting.
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (for topping): Creates a satisfyingly crunchy top layer that contrasts the creamy filling.
- 2 tbsp butter (melted, for topping): Helps the topping brown beautifully and taste rich.
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish (optional): Brightens up the casserole visually and with a fresh flavor punch.
How to Make Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes into roughly equal-sized pieces. Boil them in salted water until they are fork-tender, about 10 to 12 minutes. This creates the creamy, tender base that absorbs all the delicious sauce. Once cooked, drain and set them aside to cool slightly so they’re ready to take on the rich cheesy mixture.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
While the potatoes are cooling, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. This sauce is where the magic begins — its creaminess and bold flavors will coat every potato piece in pure comfort.
Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Sauce
Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the sauce mixture. Take care to coat each potato piece evenly without breaking them up too much. This step ensures every bite is rich and flavorful without losing that lovely potato texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Transfer your cheesy potato mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly so it bakes uniformly and gets that perfect golden crust on top.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
Mix the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with melted butter until all pieces are coated. Sprinkle this crunchy topping evenly over the casserole. This final layer adds a delightful texture contrast that makes the dish irresistible.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pop the casserole in and bake for 30 to 35 minutes until the topping turns a beautiful golden brown and the casserole bubbles with cheesy goodness. The smell alone will have you ready to dive right in.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Once out of the oven, garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley if you like a little pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and prepare for all the compliments headed your way!
How to Serve Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding chopped green onions or parsley isn’t just about color; it brings a subtle fresh bite that balances the richness of the casserole. Sprinkle them generously just before serving to keep everything lively and inviting.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe shines as a hearty side, especially alongside juicy roasted meats like chicken, pork, or beef. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables work beautifully too, offering a fresh contrast to the creamy potatoes.
Creative Ways to Present
You can turn this beloved casserole into individual portions by baking in ramekins or muffin tins for cute, personal servings. For a fun twist, try adding cooked bacon or caramelized onions into the mix or swap out cornflakes for panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for an extra gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe keeps very well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just cover it tightly with foil or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor until your next comforting meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully if you want to prepare in advance. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, bake it straight from frozen, just adding extra baking time.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole to prevent drying out and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly, usually about 20 minutes. For single servings, microwave until warm, but the oven gives that lovely freshly baked texture and taste.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is classic, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a kick, or even a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile in your Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it a day in advance, keep it refrigerated, and bake it fresh when ready. This makes weeknight dinners or holiday meal planning a breeze.
What’s the best potato for this recipe?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they become fluffy when cooked and hold up well in the creamy sauce. Yukon Golds would work too for a slightly buttery flavor and a creamier texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute the topping with gluten-free crackers or gluten-free breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s easy to adapt.
Can I add vegetables to the casserole?
Definitely! Chopped cooked broccoli, caramelized onions, or mushrooms can be folded in for added nutrition and layers of flavor, making the Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe even more versatile.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and joy with every bite. It’s simple to prepare yet feels like a special treat any day of the week. I encourage you to try it out, invite some loved ones over, and watch how fast this crowd favorite disappears from the table. Your kitchen will smell like home, and your heart will be full.
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Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Potato Casserole is a comforting and flavorful baked dish featuring tender russet potatoes coated in a creamy blend of sharp cheddar cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise, topped with a crunchy cornflake or breadcrumb crust. Perfect as a hearty side or main dish for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Potatoes and Sauce
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Topping
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: In a large pot, bring water to a boil and cook the diced potatoes until fork-tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the water thoroughly and set the potatoes aside to cool slightly.
- Make the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, mayonnaise, milk, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until the mixture is well combined and creamy.
- Combine Potatoes and Sauce: Add the cooked potatoes to the cheese mixture and gently stir to coat the potatoes evenly without breaking them apart.
- Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the potato mixture evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish to prepare for baking.
- Prepare the Topping: In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with the melted butter. Sprinkle this crunchy mixture evenly over the top of the casserole for a golden crust.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly throughout.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired. Serve warm as a delicious side or main dish.
Notes
- Use russet potatoes for the best texture and creaminess.
- The topping can be customized with breadcrumbs for a different crunch.
- Letting the potatoes cool slightly helps prevent them from breaking up too much when mixed.
- For a lighter version, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- This casserole can be prepared a day ahead and baked fresh before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
