Cheesy Potato Casserole

Name: Cheesy Potato Casserole
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 4 cups thinly sliced potatoes; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

Indulge in the creamy goodness of cheesy potato casserole, a comfort food classic that brings warmth to any table. Layered with tender potatoes, rich cheese, and a hint of spices, this dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Simple to prepare and irresistibly delicious, it’s sure to become a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

– 4 cups of thinly sliced potatoes
– 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup of sour cream
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons of butter, melted

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, with a cooking time of about 1 hour.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 300 calories, 15g of fat, 35g of carbohydrates, and 10g of protein. This is based on a single serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
3. Layer half of the sliced potatoes in the bottom of the dish.
4. In a bowl, mix together sour cream, milk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour half of the mixture over the potatoes evenly.
6. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture.
7. Repeat with the remaining potatoes and sour cream mixture.
8. Top with the remaining cheese and breadcrumbs.
9. Drizzle melted butter over the top.
10. Bake for 60 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Alternative Ingredients

You can easily customize this casserole by substituting the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor. Additionally, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter option.

Serving and Pairings

Cheesy potato casserole pairs beautifully with roasted meats, grilled vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. It also makes a great side dish for holiday feasts like Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Storage and Reheating

Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. It can also be frozen for up to a month; just thaw before reheating.

Cooking Mistakes

Overcooking the potatoes can lead to mushiness.
Not greasing the dish can cause sticking.
Skipping the breadcrumbs may affect the texture.
Using too much liquid can make it soupy.
Not layering properly can result in uneven cooking.

Helpful Tips

Use a mandoline for even potato slices.
Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes before serving for better slicing.
Add cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.
Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a twist.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time when cooking.

What type of potatoes should I use?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this dish due to their texture and ability to hold up during baking.

Can I add vegetables to the casserole?

Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply omit the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free alternative.

How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for a month.

Conclusion

Cheesy potato casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with tender potatoes. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a weekday meal, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Don’t hesitate to personalize it with your favorite ingredients, and enjoy the deliciousness!