Description
Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole
Ingredients
6 cups diced potatoes (boiled until tender or use frozen hash browns)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup sour cream
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
1/4 cup melted butter
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups cornflakes, crushed (for topping)
2 tbsp melted butter (for topping)
Directions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
In a large bowl, mix the potatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Spread the potato mixture evenly into the prepared casserole dish.
Combine crushed cornflakes with 2 tbsp melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the potato mixture.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
Serve hot and enjoy as a side dish or main course!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Potatoes: If using fresh potatoes, peel and dice them into 1/2-inch cubes. Boil in salted water for 10-12 minutes until just tender. Drain thoroughly and let cool slightly. For a shortcut, use 6 cups of thawed frozen diced hash browns.
2. Mix the Base: In a very large mixing bowl, combine the cooked potatoes, 2 cups shredded cheddar, 1 cup sour cream, the full can of cream of chicken soup, 1/4 cup melted butter, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and salt & pepper. Stir gently but thoroughly until every potato piece is coated in the creamy, cheesy mixture.
3. Assemble: Transfer the potato mixture to your greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Use a spatula to press it into a smooth, even layer.
4. Create the Topping: Place 2 cups of cornflakes in a zip-top bag and crush with your hands or a rolling pin. In a small bowl, mix the crushed cereal with 2 tablespoons of melted butter until the crumbs are evenly coated. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the entire casserole.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake on the middle rack of your preheated 375°F oven for 30-35 minutes. The casserole is done when the topping is a deep golden brown and the edges are visibly bubbly.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and hearty casserole is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a show-stopping side dish alongside baked ham, roasted chicken, or grilled sausages. For a comforting main course, pair it with a simple green salad or steamed green beans to balance the richness. It’s also the ultimate potluck or holiday dish, as it travels well and stays warm for a long time.
How-to Summary
Combine cooked potatoes, cheese, sour cream, soup, and seasonings. Spread in a dish, top with buttery cornflakes, and bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole completely (including the topping), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
Can I use a different soup? Absolutely. Cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup are excellent vegetarian-friendly substitutes that work perfectly.
What can I use instead of cornflakes for the topping? Crushed Ritz crackers, panko breadcrumbs, or even French fried onions make a delicious crispy topping.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the whole dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven until heated through.
Can I add meat to this? Certainly. For a heartier meal, mix in 1-2 cups of diced cooked ham, crumbled cooked bacon, or browned ground sausage with the potato mixture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid using potatoes that are overcooked and mushy, as they will break down into a gluey texture. Ensure your hash browns are thoroughly thawed and drained to prevent a watery casserole. Do not skip the step of mixing the cornflake topping with butter, as this prevents it from burning and ensures a perfect golden crunch. Finally, resist the urge to overmix the base—stir just until combined to maintain some texture.
Conclusion
This Easy Cheesy Potato Casserole is the definition of reliable comfort food. With its creamy, savory interior and irresistibly crunchy topping, it’s guaranteed to become a requested favorite at any table. Its simple preparation and flexible ingredients make it a foolproof recipe for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Give it a try and watch it disappear!