This Cheesy Potato Casserole is the perfect comfort food, featuring tender potatoes smothered in a rich, creamy cheddar sauce and topped with a crispy, buttery crunch. Each bite is a delightful combination of melty cheese and perfectly seasoned potatoes, making it a must-have for cozy family dinners, potlucks, or holiday gatherings.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! Just mix, bake, and enjoy a dish that’s sure to bring warmth and joy to the table. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a hearty meal on its own, this casserole is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with your favorite protein or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs)
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large pot, boil diced potatoes for about 10 minutes or until just tender. Drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix together cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Fold in the cooked potatoes until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix crushed cornflakes with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Kcal: 340 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
Introduction
Cheesy Potato Casserole is a beloved dish that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. Whether you know it as funeral potatoes, cheesy hash brown casserole, or baked cheddar potatoes, this dish has been a staple in home kitchens for generations. With its creamy, cheesy, and buttery texture, it’s the perfect side dish for potlucks, holiday meals, and family dinners.
This easy, oven-baked dish combines tender russet potatoes with rich cheddar cheese, sour cream, and a crispy, buttery topping—making it irresistibly delicious! If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs well with everything, this recipe is for you.
A Brief History of Cheesy Potato Casserole
This dish has its roots in traditional Midwestern and Southern cooking, where casseroles are a comforting way to feed large families. The term “funeral potatoes” became popular because this dish is often served at gatherings, potlucks, and post-funeral meals due to its ease of preparation and universal appeal.
Over time, different versions have emerged, with some using hash browns instead of diced potatoes and others incorporating bacon, ham, or even spicy seasonings for an extra twist. Regardless of the variation, the core ingredients remain the same—potatoes, cheese, and a creamy base.
Cheesy Potato Casserole – The Ultimate Comfort Food
This Cheesy Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish, perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or an easy weeknight side dish. Made with tender potatoes, rich cheddar cheese, and a creamy sauce, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table. The crispy buttery topping adds a delightful crunch, making it even more irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Super Easy to Make – No complicated steps, just mix, bake, and enjoy!
✔ Rich, Creamy, and Cheesy – A dreamy blend of sharp cheddar, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup creates a decadent flavor.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, a potluck, or a casual weeknight dinner, this casserole is always a hit.
✔ Customizable – You can add bacon, veggies, or different types of cheese to make it your own.
Ingredients Breakdown
- Russet Potatoes – The best choice for a fluffy, soft texture. You can also use Yukon Gold for a slightly richer taste.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Brings a bold, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the potatoes. Feel free to mix in mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for extra cheesiness.
- Sour Cream – Adds creaminess and a subtle tang, making the casserole extra indulgent.
- Cream of Chicken Soup – A key ingredient for a rich, smooth texture. Substitute with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a vegetarian version.
- Butter – Enhances the creaminess and adds a rich, buttery flavor.
- Garlic & Onion Powder – Simple seasonings that enhance the savory taste of the dish.
- Salt & Pepper – A must-have to bring out all the flavors.
- Crushed Cornflakes or Breadcrumbs – Adds the signature crispy topping. Panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers work well, too.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley – Optional, but adds a fresh, vibrant touch for garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Potatoes
- Peel and dice the potatoes into small cubes for even cooking.
- Boil them until just fork-tender (about 10 minutes), then drain and set aside.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, and seasonings.
- Gently fold in the cooked potatoes until evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
3. Assemble and Bake
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
- Mix crushed cornflakes (or breadcrumbs) with melted butter and sprinkle on top.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until golden and bubbly.
4. Serve & Enjoy!
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy warm!
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Potato Casserole is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various dishes, such as:
🥩 Grilled or Roasted Meats – Serve alongside steak, chicken, or pork chops.
🥗 Fresh Salads – A light green salad or coleslaw balances out the richness of the casserole.
🥦 Steamed Vegetables – Serve with roasted Brussels sprouts, green beans, or broccoli for a complete meal.
Make It Your Own – Recipe Variations
🌶 Add a Kick – Stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little spice.
🥓 Make It Meaty – Add crispy bacon bits, shredded rotisserie chicken, or cooked ground sausage.
🧀 Extra Cheesy – Mix in different cheeses like Monterey Jack, smoked gouda, or Swiss.
🥔 Use Hash Browns – Swap diced potatoes for shredded hash browns for a quicker prep.
🌱 Vegetarian-Friendly – Replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery soup.
Storage & Reheating Tips
🔹 Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🔹 Freezing: Wrap the casserole tightly with foil or store in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months.
🔹 Reheating:
- Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven.
❓ What can I use instead of cornflakes for the topping?
If you don’t have cornflakes, try using panko breadcrumbs, crushed Ritz crackers, or crushed potato chips for a crispy topping.
❓ How do I make this casserole healthier?
To lighten up the dish, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, reduce the butter, and opt for low-fat cheese.
❓ Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes! You can use frozen shredded or diced hash browns—just thaw and drain them before mixing.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Potato Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser that delivers creamy, cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal, it’s a dish that never disappoints. Try it out and let us know how you like it!