Ultimate Cheesy Potato Casserole: Comfort Food Classic
Creamy layers and crispy topping make every gathering feel like a warm, welcoming feast.
Ultimate Cheesy Potato Casserole
Few dishes capture the spirit of American comfort food quite like cheesy potato casserole. Celebrated on family tables and potlucks across the country, this decadent, easy-to-make side dish features creamy, tangy potatoes, plenty of cheddar cheese, and a gloriously crisp, buttery topping. The recipe’s simplicity is thanks to frozen hash browns, making preparation quick yet irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re making it for holidays, a weeknight dinner, or any gathering, cheesy potato casserole is guaranteed to disappear fast!
What Is Cheesy Potato Casserole?
Cheesy potato casserole, affectionately known in some circles as “funeral potatoes,” is a baked dish typically made with shredded potatoes (fresh or frozen), cheddar cheese, sour cream, and condensed cream of chicken soup. The mixture is topped with buttery breadcrumbs or cornflakes, creating an irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy center and crackling crust. Because the recipe relies on easy-prep ingredients, especially frozen hash browns, it comes together with minimal fuss—no peeling or boiling required.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup salted butter, divided (plus extra for greasing the pan)
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 16 oz. sour cream
- Two 10.5-oz. cans condensed cream of chicken soup
- 8 oz. shredded cheddar cheese
- 30 oz. frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 Tbsp. chopped parsley
Tip: For optimal results, remove frozen hash browns from the freezer about an hour ahead so they’re thawed and ready for mixing. The fine shred of hash browns ensures quick and even baking.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat Oven and Prep Aromatics:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 3-quart casserole dish with butter. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat; melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, then add garlic and cook until onion is softened, about 2 minutes more. Transfer the mixture to a plate and let cool slightly.
- Make Creamy Potato Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, blend the sour cream, condensed soup, cheddar cheese, thawed hash browns, and cooked onion-garlic mixture.
- Fill Baking Dish:
Spread the mixture evenly into your prepared casserole dish. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Prepare Buttery Breadcrumb Topping:
While the casserole bakes, place remaining 6 tablespoons butter in a small bowl, covering and microwaving until melted (about 45–60 seconds). Stir in breadcrumbs and parsley.
- Top and Finish Baking:
Uncover the casserole, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture on top, and bake another 25–30 minutes—until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling.
Why Use Frozen Hash Browns?
Frozen shredded hash browns offer remarkable convenience: no peeling, shredding, or boiling potatoes, which dramatically cuts prep time and ensures evenly textured, well-cooked potatoes every time. The thin shreds bake quickly, absorbing the creaminess of the sauce and maximizing flavor. This shortcut guarantees a consistent result that’s impossible to distinguish from the scratch version.
Variations and Customization
Cheesy potato casserole is highly adaptable. Consider these tasty twists:
- Add bacon: Stir in cooked, crumbled bacon for a smoky, savory edge.
- Switch soup: Substitute cream of mushroom or celery for the chicken soup for different flavors.
- Try other cheeses: Use Monterey Jack, Colby, or Pepper Jack for a spicier profile.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne, smoked paprika, or chopped jalapeño to the mix.
- Crispy topping options: Instead of breadcrumbs, use crushed cornflakes, potato chips, or fried onions for added crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cheesy potato casserole piping hot, straight from the oven. Garnish with extra chopped parsley or chives for a bright finish. This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Roast chicken or turkey
- BBQ meats like brisket or pulled pork
- Holiday hams and beef roasts
- Vegetarian mains with a hearty side needed
Nutrition Information
| Component | Approximate Value (per serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300–400 |
| Fat | 20–25g |
| Carbohydrates | 25–35g |
| Protein | 8–12g |
| Sodium | 700–900mg |
Values will vary with ingredient choices and serving size.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Freezing Tips
- Make-Ahead: Assemble the casserole (without topping) up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.
- Storage: Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven to retain the crispy topping.
- Freezing: Freeze the unbaked, assembled casserole (omit topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw in refrigerator overnight, then top and bake as directed.
What others are reading
Tips for Cheesy Potato Casserole Success
- Thaw potatoes fully: If the hash browns aren’t thoroughly thawed, the bake time will increase and the texture may be uneven.
- Mix gently: Overmixing the potato mixture can make it dense—fold ingredients together until just combined.
- Cover while baking: The initial covered bake allows the base to cook and flavors to meld without drying out.
- Crisp the topping: Uncover for the final bake to crisp the breadcrumb topping for textural contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s the difference between cheesy potato casserole and potatoes au gratin?
A: While both are creamy and cheesy, potatoes au gratin typically use fresh sliced potatoes (often with skins left on) layered with cream and cheese, whereas cheesy potato casserole employs shredded potatoes, sour cream, condensed soup, and sometimes a crunchy topping.
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
A: Yes. Peel and grate russet potatoes, then rinse and drain well before using. The result will be slightly different in texture but equally delicious.
Q: Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
A: Absolutely—replace cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or celery soup for a vegetarian-friendly dish.
Q: What’s a good substitute for breadcrumbs as a topping?
A: Crushed cornflakes, potato chips, or crispy fried onions all make excellent alternatives for a flavorful, crunchy finish.
Q: Can I double the recipe for a large crowd?
A: Yes—simply double all ingredients and bake in two 3-quart pans or a deeper roasting pan. Check doneness with a knife in the center; add extra baking time if needed.
Q: How do I prevent sogginess in the casserole?
A: Ensure potatoes are thawed and drained of excess water, and don’t skimp on the initial 45-minute covered bake to fully cook out moisture before adding the topping.
Cheesy Potato Casserole vs. Other Potato Casseroles
| Dish | Main Potato Form | Key Ingredients | Topping |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cheesy Potato Casserole | Frozen shredded hash browns | Cheddar, sour cream, condensed soup, onion | Breadcrumbs or cornflakes |
| Potatoes Au Gratin | Thinly sliced fresh potatoes | Heavy cream, garlic, cheese, sometimes onion | Cheese |
| Twice-Baked Potato Casserole | Baked then mashed potatoes | Cheddar, bacon, sour cream | Cheese, chives, bacon |
| Mashed Potato Casserole | Mashed potatoes | Bacon, two types of cheese, onion dip | Fried onions, potato chips |
Occasions to Serve Cheesy Potato Casserole
- Holidays: Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day feasts
- Potlucks: Crowd-pleasing and easily portable for picnics or church suppers
- Family dinners: Pairs perfectly with roasted or grilled proteins
- Comfort food cravings: Satisfying and hearty for cold-weather nights
Expert Tips for Maximum Flavor
- Use sharp cheddar: For pronounced flavor, use extra-sharp or aged cheddar.
- Don’t skip the onions and garlic: This aromatic base layers subtle complexity throughout the dish.
- Butter matters: Salted butter enhances richness—don’t skimp!
- Let it rest: Allow casserole to rest 10 minutes before serving so it sets and is easy to scoop.
More Potato Casserole Inspirations
If you love cheesy potato casserole, try branching out with:
- Mashed Potato Casserole: Loaded with bacon, cheese, fried onions, and even potato chips.
- Au Gratin Potatoes: Fresh sliced potatoes layered with cheese and a creamy sauce for a refined touch.
- Twice-Baked Potato Casserole: All the flavors of classic twice-baked potatoes, reimagined as an easy casserole.
Cooking Video Highlight
For those who prefer visual instruction, watch Ree Drummond’s classic cheesy potato recipes on The Pioneer Woman’s YouTube channel. Get helpful hints, step-by-step directions, and watch how the dish bubbles up beautifully in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions (Recap)
Q: Can I use fresh potatoes?
A: Yes, peel and grate russets, rinsing to remove excess starch. Thaw and drain for best texture.
Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Substitute cream of chicken soup with mushroom or celery soup.
Q: How should leftovers be stored?
A: Refrigerate in a covered container up to 3 days. Reheat in oven or microwave.
Q: Does the casserole freeze well?
A: Yes, freeze unbaked (without topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw, add topping, and bake.
Q: What other toppings work well?
A: Try cornflakes, potato chips, crispy fried onions, or even extra cheese.
Cheesy Potato Casserole: A Family Tradition
This classic, approachable recipe for cheesy potato casserole continues to bring joy to family gatherings and dinner tables everywhere. Its blend of creamy, sharp, and crunchy textures makes it irresistible to kids and adults alike. Easy enough for busy weeknights but special enough for holidays, it’s the ultimate comfort side dish—always ready to steal the spotlight at the meal.
References
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a62672040/mashed-potato-casserole-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a36841846/cheesy-potato-casserole/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sHgb7rOeyI
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a11483/perfect-potatoes-au-gratin/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9mJTxC0rQhs
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