Description
Cheesy Potato Casserole
Ingredients:
4 cups diced cooked potatoes
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup green onions, chopped
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
2 tbsp melted butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F)
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2. In a mixing bowl, combine potatoes, sour cream, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, green onions, salt, and pepper
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3. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish
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4. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the top
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5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly
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6. Garnish with extra green onions and serve hot!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect casserole every time. First, ensure your potatoes are cooked and diced uniformly, about 1/2-inch cubes, for even texture. While the oven preheats to 350°F, thoroughly combine the sour cream, softened cream cheese, cheddar, and chopped green onions in a large bowl. Season this mixture generously with salt and pepper before gently folding in the potatoes to avoid mashing them. Transfer to a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. For the topping, combine plain breadcrumbs with the melted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand, then sprinkle it evenly over the potato layer. Place the dish on the center oven rack and bake for 25-30 minutes. The casserole is done when the topping is crisp and golden and the edges are visibly bubbling.
Serving Suggestions
This rich and comforting casserole is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a standout side dish for holiday ham, roasted chicken, or grilled steak. For a casual meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. It also makes a fantastic potluck or picnic dish, as it holds its heat well and is easy to transport. For a brunch twist, top individual servings with a fried or poached egg.
How-to Summary
In summary: mix creamy ingredients and seasonings with diced cooked potatoes, spread in a dish, top with buttery breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time? Yes. Assemble the casserole (without baking), cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add 5-10 minutes to the baking time when cooking from cold.
What’s the best way to cook the potatoes? Boiling peeled, cubed potatoes for 10-15 minutes until just tender is ideal. Avoid overcooking, or they will become mushy in the casserole.
Can I use frozen potatoes? You can use frozen diced hash browns. Thaw and drain them very well to remove excess moisture, which would make the casserole soggy.
How can I make the topping crispier? Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones. For extra flavor, mix in a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs and butter.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat portions in the microwave or the entire dish, covered with foil, in a 325°F oven until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using Undercooked or Overcooked Potatoes: They should be tender but still hold their shape when diced.
- Not Draining Potatoes: Excess water will dilute the creamy mixture and create a wet casserole.
- Forgetting to Soften Cream Cheese: Cold cream cheese will not blend smoothly, leaving lumps in the mixture.
- Overmixing: Stir the potatoes gently to maintain some texture; vigorous mixing creates a gluey, mashed potato consistency.
- Skipping the Butter in the Topping: The butter is crucial for browning and crisping the breadcrumbs.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy potatoes with a satisfying crunchy topping. It’s a straightforward recipe that yields impressive results, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common mistakes, you’ll create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to earn a permanent spot in your recipe collection. Enjoy the delicious, warm, and cheesy goodness!