There’s something magical about a cheesy potato casserole—it’s warm, creamy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering, a potluck, or just a cozy family dinner, this dish never fails to be a crowd-pleaser. With its rich, cheesy goodness and perfectly tender potatoes, it’s the kind of comfort food that brings people together.
In this post, we’ll go over everything you need to know to make the perfect cheesy potato casserole, from ingredients and variations to tips for making it extra delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Casserole
✔️ Easy to Make – Just mix, layer, and bake!
✔️ Crowd-Pleasing – Everyone loves creamy, cheesy potatoes.
✔️ Customizable – Add bacon, veggies, or different cheeses.
✔️ Great for Leftovers – It tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen:
Base Ingredients
• 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced (or use frozen hash browns for convenience)
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Colby Jack, or your favorite blend)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for a vegetarian option)
• ½ cup butter, melted
• ½ cup milk
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt & pepper to taste
Topping (Optional but Recommended!)
• 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Extra shredded cheese for a golden, bubbly crust
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Potatoes (If Not Using Frozen Hash Browns)
Boil diced potatoes in salted water for about 8-10 minutes until just tender. Drain well.
3. Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Assemble the Casserole
• Add the cooked (or frozen) potatoes to the creamy mixture.
• Stir in 2 cups of shredded cheese.
• Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
5. Add the Topping
• In a small bowl, mix crushed
cornflakes with melted butter.
• Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the casserole.
• Add extra shredded cheese on top for extra cheesiness!
6. Bake & Enjoy!
• Bake uncovered for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
• Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Variations & Add-Ins
Want to make your cheesy potato casserole even more exciting? Try these tasty variations:
• Bacon Lovers’ Version – Stir in crispy bacon bits for a smoky, savory twist.
• Veggie Boost – Add bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Spicy Kick – Mix in chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Protein-Packed – Add shredded rotisserie chicken or ground beef to make it a full meal.
Pro Tips for the Best Cheesy Potato Casserole
✅ Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
✅ Don’t Overcook the Potatoes – If boiling, cook them until just tender, so they don’t become mushy.
✅ Make It Ahead – Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake when ready!
✅ Double the Batch – This dish freezes well, so make an extra pan for later.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy potato casserole pairs perfectly with:
• Grilled chicken or steak
• Roasted vegetables
• A crisp green salad
• Scrambled eggs (for a breakfast casserole twist!)
Storage & Reheating Tips
• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions.
Final Thoughts
A cheesy potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food—simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just craving a cozy, homemade meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out or if you added your own twist!
Enjoy your cheesy, comforting goodness!