Description
Easy Cheesy Potatoes
Ingredients
6 cups frozen diced hash brown potatoes (thawed)
2 cups shredded 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
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large bowl, mix together sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Fold in the thawed hash browns and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top.
Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving (optional).
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 8
Calories: 320 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prep & Preheat: Thaw your frozen hash browns completely. This is crucial for even cooking. Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Create the Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Whisk until it forms a smooth, uniform sauce.
3. Combine Main Ingredients: Add the thawed hash brown potatoes and 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Use a spatula to gently fold everything together until the potatoes are evenly coated.
4. Assemble & Top: Transfer the cheesy potato mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese evenly over the top.
5. Bake to Perfection: Bake uncovered on a middle rack for 45-50 minutes. The dish is ready when the edges are bubbly and the top is a beautiful, golden brown.
6. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows it to set slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serving Suggestions
These Easy Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate side dish. Serve them alongside roasted or grilled chicken, baked ham, or meatloaf for a classic comfort food meal. They are also a star at potlucks and holiday gatherings like Easter, Thanksgiving, or Christmas. For a complete weeknight dinner, pair them with simple steamed green beans or a crisp garden salad to balance the richness.
How-to Summary
Thaw hash browns. Mix sour cream, soup, butter, and seasonings for the sauce. Fold in potatoes and most of the cheese. Spread in a dish, top with remaining cheese, and bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Assemble the dish completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. You may need to add 5-10 minutes to the bake time.
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen? It’s not recommended. Fresh potatoes contain too much moisture and will make the casserole soupy. Frozen hash browns are par-cooked and have the ideal texture.
What can I substitute for cream of chicken soup? Cream of mushroom or celery soup work well. For a vegetarian version, use a cream of potato or cream of celery soup.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 325°F oven until warmed through.
Can I add other ingredients? Absolutely! Try mixing in cooked, crumbled bacon, diced ham, sautéed onions, or a cup of frozen mixed vegetables for a heartier dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Thawing Potatoes: Using frozen hash browns will drastically increase bake time and result in a watery casserole.
- Overmixing: Gently fold the ingredients to maintain the structure of the potatoes and avoid a gummy texture.
- Underseasoning: Taste the sauce mixture before adding the potatoes. Remember, potatoes need a good amount of seasoning.
- Skipping the Rest Time: Serving immediately from the oven will make it very runny. Letting it rest allows it to set perfectly.
Conclusion
This Easy Cheesy Potatoes recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that delivers maximum comfort with minimal effort. Its creamy, cheesy, and savory flavor profile makes it the perfect side dish for any occasion, from a simple family dinner to a festive holiday feast. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll achieve a perfectly golden, bubbly casserole every single time. Give this classic recipe a try—it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home cooking repertoire.