Cheesy Potatoes Recipe: Simple and Easy Comfort Food

Cheesy potatoes are a classic comfort food that pairs beautifully with almost any meal. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a potluck, or a holiday feast, this dish brings warmth, flavor, and satisfaction to the table. Here’s a simple, easy-to-follow recipe that will give you creamy, cheesy goodness with every bite.

Ingredients

To make the perfect cheesy potatoes, you’ll need:

• 6 large russet potatoes (or 8 medium-sized ones)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (feel free to mix with mozzarella or Colby Jack)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarians)
• ½ cup butter (1 stick), melted
• 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
• ½ cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating up, peel and wash the potatoes. You can use russet potatoes for their starchy texture, which helps the dish stay creamy and tender.

After peeling, slice the potatoes into thin rounds, about ¼-inch thick, or dice them into cubes for a different texture. If you prefer a faster route, you can use frozen diced hash browns instead of fresh potatoes, cutting down on prep time significantly.

2. Cook the Potatoes (Optional)

To ensure that your potatoes are cooked through and soft after baking, you can parboil them before combining with the other ingredients. Simply place the sliced or diced potatoes in a pot of salted boiling water and cook for about 5-7 minutes. The potatoes should be tender but still firm. Drain them well and set them aside.

3. Make the Cheesy Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, and garlic (if using). Stir until everything is well combined and smooth. If you want an extra oniony flavor, sauté the chopped onion in a small pan until it’s translucent, then add it to the mixture.

Next, add 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, pepper, and paprika (if you like a bit of smoky flavor). Stir until the cheese is evenly distributed in the sauce.

4. Combine Potatoes and Sauce

If you’re using fresh or parboiled potatoes, gently fold them into the cheese sauce, making sure each piece of potato is coated in the mixture. Be careful not to break up the potatoes too much. If you’re using frozen hash browns, you can add them directly to the sauce without thawing, which simplifies the process even more.

5. Transfer to a Baking Dish

Once the potatoes are coated with the cheesy sauce, transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the potatoes evenly, so they cook uniformly.

6. Add Toppings (Optional)

For added texture and a crispy topping, sprinkle crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs on top of the potato mixture. Mix the 2 tablespoons of melted butter with the topping before spreading it over the potatoes. This will create a golden, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft, creamy potatoes underneath.

If you’re more of a cheese-lover, sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top instead.

7. Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender, the sauce is bubbling, and the top is golden brown. If you’re using frozen hash browns, the baking time might lean closer to the 45-minute mark.

About 10 minutes before the baking time is up, you can increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) or switch to broil mode for a few minutes to get an extra crispy top. Just be sure to watch it closely so it doesn’t burn.

8. Cool and Serve

After removing the cheesy potatoes from the oven, let them cool for 5-10 minutes. This helps the cheese sauce thicken slightly, making it easier to serve. Once they’ve rested, use a large spoon to scoop generous portions onto plates, serving it alongside your favorite main dish.

Recipe Variations

One of the best parts about cheesy potatoes is how versatile they are. You can customize them in many ways, depending on your tastes and dietary preferences:

• Meaty Addition: Add cooked, crumbled bacon, sausage, or diced ham to the cheese mixture for extra protein and flavor.
• Vegetarian: Use cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of chicken to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture for a bit of heat.
• Healthier Version: Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use reduced-fat cheese to cut down on calories while keeping the dish creamy and delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy potatoes are a fantastic side dish for almost any meal. They’re commonly served with:

• Roast chicken or turkey: The creaminess of the potatoes complements the juicy tenderness of poultry.
• Steak or pork chops: The richness of the potatoes balances out the savory, bold flavors of grilled meats.
• Barbecue dishes: Whether it’s pulled pork or grilled ribs, cheesy potatoes are the ultimate comfort side to a BBQ spread.
• Holiday meals: Cheesy potatoes are often a staple during Thanksgiving or Christmas dinners.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave in a microwave-safe dish or reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

Cheesy potatoes can also be frozen before baking. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.

Final Thoughts

This simple cheesy potatoes recipe is as easy as it is comforting. With its creamy sauce, melted cheese, and optional crispy topping, it’s no wonder this dish is a favorite at gatherings and family dinners. Enjoy it as is or get creative with toppings and variations to suit your taste!