Cheesy Potato Casserole

$- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced - 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1 cup sour cream - 1 cup milk - 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 cup green onions, chopped - 1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping) - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping) Gathering the right ingredients makes a big difference in your dish. I love using russet potatoes for their creamy texture. They hold up well and cook evenly. Sharp cheddar cheese brings a strong flavor that pairs perfectly with the potatoes. Sour cream adds creaminess and a slight tang. For the creamy base, mix the sour cream with milk and melted butter. The garlic and onion powders give it a nice kick. Green onions add color and freshness on top. The breadcrumbs and Parmesan create a crunchy, golden layer that contrasts well with the soft potatoes. - For a dairy-free dish, use plant-based sour cream and cheese. - You can swap russet potatoes for Yukon Gold or red potatoes for different textures. - Try gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for a crispy topping. These options let you adjust the recipe to fit your needs. Just remember, the key is to keep the flavors balanced. Each ingredient plays a part in making your cheesy potato casserole a true comfort food delight. For the full recipe, check out Cheesy Potato Paradise! 1. Preheat the oven and prepare the baking dish Start by setting your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, grab a 9x13 inch baking dish. Grease the dish well with cooking spray or butter. This helps prevent sticking. 2. Mixing the sour cream mixture In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of milk, and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Whisk until smooth. This mixture brings creamy flavor to your casserole. 1. First layer of potatoes and cheese Place half of the thinly sliced russet potatoes in the greased baking dish. Spread them evenly. Pour half of the sour cream mixture over the potatoes. Then, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese on top. 2. Second layer of potatoes and cheese Repeat the process. Add the rest of the potatoes, then pour the remaining sour cream mixture over them. Finish with another cup of cheddar cheese. This layering builds rich flavor and gooey texture. 1. Initial baking covered with foil Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes. This keeps the moisture in and helps the potatoes cook through. 2. Final baking uncovered for crispy topping After 45 minutes, take off the foil. Sprinkle 1 cup of breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes. You want the top to be golden brown and crispy. The potatoes should be tender when pierced with a fork. Enjoy your cheesy potato casserole, a comfort food delight that warms the heart! For the full recipe, check the earlier section. To achieve the perfect potato texture, choose russet potatoes. They are starchy and fluffy. Peel and slice them thinly for even cooking. Soak the slices in cold water for 30 minutes. This step removes excess starch and helps them cook better. When layering, make sure each layer is even. This way, every bite has the same cheesy goodness. Cheesy potato casserole pairs well with many sides. A fresh green salad adds a nice crunch. Grilled chicken or pork chops complement the creamy texture too. For garnishing, sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley or chives on top. A dollop of sour cream on each serving adds extra creaminess and looks appealing. You can prepare this casserole in advance. Assemble it the night before and cover it well. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven. If you need to store it before baking, keep it in the fridge for up to two days. Make sure to cover it tightly with foil. This keeps it fresh and ready to bake. {{image_2}} You can make cheesy potato casserole even better by adding veggies. Broccoli and spinach work great. They add color and nutrients. You can mix them right into the layers. You can also add proteins like bacon or ham. Cook the bacon first, then chop it up. This adds a nice crunch and flavor. Ham gives it a hearty touch. Both options make the dish more filling. The cheese you choose can change the whole dish. Try using mozzarella for a milder taste. Gouda brings a smoky flavor that’s also delicious. Mixing cheeses can create a fun twist too. Spices can take your casserole to the next level. Adding paprika gives a nice warmth. A pinch of cayenne can add heat for those who love spice. Just sprinkle in what you like. You can give your casserole a Mexican twist. Add jalapeños for heat and flavor. Spices like cumin and chili powder can make it exciting. This version is great for taco lovers. For an Italian flair, try adding marinara sauce. Layer it between the potatoes and cheese. This makes the dish saucy and rich. It’s a fun way to change up the classic recipe. For the full recipe, check out Cheesy Potato Paradise! To store leftover casserole, let it cool first. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place it in the fridge. This keeps it fresh for about 3 to 5 days. Always check for any signs of spoilage before using leftovers. You can freeze the casserole before or after baking. If freezing before baking, wrap it tightly to avoid freezer burn. You can bake it directly from frozen. Just add extra time to the baking process. If you freeze it after baking, let it cool completely. Then, store it in an airtight container. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Then, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Watch for signs of spoilage. If the casserole has a strange smell or mold, throw it away. To keep your food safe, store it at the right temperature. Always reheat leftovers to at least 165°F (74°C) before serving. Following these steps helps you enjoy your cheesy potato casserole safely! How long does cheesy potato casserole last in the fridge? Cheesy potato casserole lasts about 3 to 5 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For the best taste, eat it within this time. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? Yes, you can. Use dairy-free sour cream and plant-based cheese. Almond, soy, or oat milk works well as substitutes. This way, you can enjoy the dish without dairy. What are some good toppings for cheesy potato casserole? Some tasty toppings include crispy bacon, fresh herbs, or extra cheese. You can also try diced jalapeños for a bit of heat. These options add flavor and texture. What to do if the potatoes are not cooked through? If the potatoes are not cooked, cover the casserole and bake longer. Check every 10 minutes. When they are fork-tender, it is done. How to fix a watery casserole? To fix a watery casserole, drain excess liquid carefully. You can also add more breadcrumbs or cheese to absorb moisture. This will help thicken it up. Is cheesy potato casserole vegetarian? Yes, cheesy potato casserole is vegetarian. It has no meat, making it a great option for those who avoid meat but still want comfort food. Calorie count per serving and tips for making it healthier One serving has about 300 to 400 calories. To make it healthier, use less cheese or replace some potatoes with veggies. You can also use low-fat sour cream and milk. This helps cut calories while keeping flavor. For the full recipe, check out the section above. In this blog post, we covered a delicious cheesy potato casserole. I shared key ingredients, including russet potatoes and sharp cheddar cheese. We also explored substitutes for dietary needs and various cooking techniques to enhance flavor. Remember, you can personalize the casserole with vegetables or proteins. Proper storage is crucial for freshness, so follow the guidelines provided. This dish is simple to make and perfect for gatherings. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own.$

Indulge in the ultimate cheesy potato paradise that will wow your family and friends! This creamy, cheesy potato casserole layered with sharp cheddar, sour cream, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping is the perfect comfort dish for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy instructions, you'll have a delightful meal ready in no time. Click to explore this delicious recipe and turn your dinner into a cheesy celebration!

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Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1 cup sour cream

1 cup milk

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup green onions, chopped

1 cup breadcrumbs (for topping)

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth.

Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Layer half of the sliced potatoes evenly in the dish. Pour half of the sour cream mixture over the potatoes. Sprinkle 1 cup of cheddar cheese on top.

Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, sour cream mixture, and another cup of cheddar cheese.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Remove the foil, sprinkle breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Once done, take the casserole out of the oven and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for freshness.

Allow cooling for about 10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes | Servings: 6-8

- Presentation Tips: Serve in the baking dish garnished with extra green onions or parsley, and a dollop of sour cream on each serving for added creaminess.