Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish, rich, creamy, and loaded with melty cheese. Whether served at weeknight dinners, holiday feasts, church potlucks, or backyard barbecues, this classic casserole-style recipe always steals the show. Made with tender hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and sharp cheddar cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection with a golden crust, these potatoes are a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Sometimes called “Party Potatoes” or “Cheesy Potato Bake,” this dish is easy to prepare, makes a generous batch, and can be customized to suit any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Topping:
- 2 cups cornflakes, crushed
- ¼ cup melted butter
- OR 1 cup crushed Ritz crackers or potato chips
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, shredded cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, chopped onion (if using), garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Step 3: Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula.
Step 4: If using a topping, mix crushed cornflakes with melted butter in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over the potato mixture.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly, and the topping is golden brown.
Step 6: Let cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Variation
- Substitute cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom or cream of celery for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Mix in chopped cooked bacon or diced ham for a hearty upgrade.
- Use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for added flavor.
- Add a layer of caramelized onions or sautéed mushrooms between the potato layers.
- Make it spicy with diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or chipotle powder.
Cooking Note
Always thaw frozen hash browns completely and pat dry if they feel too moist, excess water can make the dish runny. If using fresh potatoes, grate and soak them in cold water, then dry thoroughly before mixing. If the casserole starts browning too quickly during baking, loosely cover with foil for the last 15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Potatoes alongside main dishes like baked ham, roast beef, fried chicken, meatloaf, or barbecue ribs. They also pair wonderfully with scrambled eggs or quiche for brunch. A side salad or roasted vegetables can help balance the richness. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips
- Use freshly shredded cheese for better melt and flavor,pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
- Double the recipe for large gatherings and bake in two pans.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warmed through to maintain crisp topping.
- Freeze before or after baking, just wrap tightly and thaw overnight before reheating.
Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information
Calories: 390 per serving
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 680mg
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes. Assemble the casserole up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.
Can I freeze cheesy potatoes?
- Yes. Assemble the unbaked casserole and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before baking. Baked leftovers can also be frozen and reheated.
What’s the best cheese to use?
- Sharp cheddar gives the boldest flavor, but feel free to blend it with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby for variety.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
- Yes. Mix all ingredients and cook in a greased slow cooker on low for 4–5 hours. Add shredded cheese on top during the last 30 minutes.
Can I use diced hash browns instead of shredded?
- Yes. Diced or cubed hash browns will give a chunkier texture. Just ensure they are thawed and dried before mixing.
Conclusion
Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate side dish, easy, comforting, and universally loved. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering, bringing a dish to a potluck, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this recipe delivers every time. With minimal prep, flexible ingredients, and rich flavor in every bite, it’s no wonder this dish has earned a permanent place at the table. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.