If you’re craving something comforting, flavorful, and downright irresistible, this Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to dish. Imagine tender shredded potatoes bathed in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with a satisfyingly crunchy cornflake crust that adds just the right texture. It’s a perfect balance of creamy and crispy that warms the soul and delights every bite. Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this casserole brings the kind of homestyle goodness that everyone will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work together like a dream. Each element plays a key role in building layers of flavor, creaminess, and that golden, crispy top that makes this Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe so special.
- 32 ounces shredded potatoes: The hearty base—defrost if using frozen for an easy start.
- 10 ½ ounces condensed cheddar cheese soup: Gives the casserole a creamy, cheesy richness; cream of mushroom soup works well as a mild alternative.
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a punch of sharp, tangy flavor for depth.
- â…” cup sour cream: Contributes creamy tanginess and helps keep the potatoes moist.
- ¼ cup melted butter: Adds richness and helps bind the casserole together.
- ¼ cup milk: Keeps the mixture smooth and creamy without being heavy.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses subtle savory warmth.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall depth of flavor.
- 1 cup cornflakes: The secret to that irresistible crispy topping.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping): Ensures the cornflakes toast beautifully golden and crunchy in the oven.
How to Make Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). This steady, moderate heat is perfect for baking the casserole evenly without drying it out, ensuring a luscious texture throughout.
Step 2: Mix the Potato Base
Grab a 9×13-inch casserole dish and combine the shredded potatoes with the condensed cheddar cheese soup, shredded cheddar, sour cream, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mixing these smoothly will distribute the cheesy, savory flavors so every bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 3: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, gently break up the cornflakes so they’re bite-sized but not powdery. Toss them together with the melted butter until every flake is coated. This step is the key to achieving that crunchy, buttery topping that contrasts beautifully with the creamy layers underneath.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
Spoon the potato mixture into your prepared casserole dish and smooth it out evenly. Then sprinkle the buttered cornflake topping over the surface. This layer will bake to a golden, crispy perfection that invites the first forkful with a delightful crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the casserole uncovered in your oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. You’ll want to watch for bubbling edges and a golden-brown topping that’s crisp and inviting. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving so it sets just right.
How to Serve Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped chives or parsley adds a bright, fresh touch that contrasts the rich and creamy casserole beautifully. For a touch of heat, a few thin slices of jalapeño or a dash of smoked paprika can elevate the flavors effortlessly.
Side Dishes
This Cheesy Potato Casserole pairs wonderfully with roasted or steamed vegetables like green beans or broccoli to add freshness and balance. A simple crisp salad or even crispy bacon bits sprinkled on top can make your meal feel complete and extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a charming single-serve presentation at dinner parties. You can also jazz it up by layering in cooked sausage or caramelized onions before baking, customizing it to your family’s flavor preferences.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for 3 to 4 days, and the flavors often deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Place it in a freezer-safe container or tightly wrap the casserole dish with foil and plastic wrap before freezing. It can be stored for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through and crispy on top again. Alternatively, microwaving works for a quick fix, though the topping may lose some crunch.
FAQs
Can I use fresh potatoes instead of shredded frozen potatoes?
Absolutely! Fresh potatoes can be shredded using a grater or food processor. Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture with a clean kitchen towel before mixing to avoid a watery casserole.
Is there a substitute for the cheddar cheese soup?
You can use cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup as a mild alternative. If you prefer homemade, mixing melted cheddar with a béchamel sauce can also work well.
Can this recipe be made dairy-free?
Yes, by swapping out the sour cream, cheese, and butter for dairy-free alternatives like plant-based sour cream, vegan cheese, and olive oil or vegan butter, you can enjoy a dairy-free version while maintaining good flavor and texture.
How can I make the topping extra crunchy?
Ensure the cornflakes are well coated in melted butter and bake the casserole uncovered. For an even crunchier texture, you can broil the casserole for the last 2 to 3 minutes—just watch closely to prevent burning.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely! This cheesy potato casserole is great for meal prepping because it reheats well and can be customized easily. Prepare it in advance, store it properly, and enjoy hassle-free lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe is a comforting hug on a plate, full of creamy, cheesy richness and a crunchy topping that’s simply addicting. It’s easy to make yet feels special enough for any occasion. I can’t recommend it enough—give it a try, and watch it become a cherished staple in your home as it has in mine.
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Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and cheesy potato casserole featuring shredded potatoes baked in a creamy cheddar cheese soup mixture, topped with a crispy cornflake crust. This easy-to-make dish is perfect as a hearty side or main for family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
Potato Mixture
- 32 ounces shredded potatoes (defrosted if frozen)
- 10 ½ ounces condensed cheddar cheese soup (or cream of mushroom soup)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- â…” cup sour cream
- ¼ cup melted butter
- ¼ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Topping
- 1 cup cornflakes
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Mix Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch casserole dish, thoroughly combine the shredded potatoes, condensed cheddar cheese soup (or cream of mushroom soup), shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly mixed.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, gently break up the cornflakes and toss them with the melted butter until they are fully coated, creating a crunchy topping.
- Add Topping: Evenly sprinkle the butter-coated cornflakes over the potato mixture in the casserole dish, ensuring full coverage.
- Bake: Bake the casserole uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until it is bubbly throughout and the cornflake topping turns golden brown and crispy, indicating it is fully cooked.
Notes
- You can substitute cream of mushroom soup for cheddar cheese soup if preferred.
- Make sure frozen shredded potatoes are fully thawed and drained before use to avoid excess moisture.
- For extra flavor, consider adding chopped onions or a pinch of paprika to the potato mixture.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking to set before serving.
- This dish reheats well in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
