Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Cheesy Potato Casserole! Imagine creamy, golden potatoes melted with rich cheddar cheese, creating a dish so irresistible that everyone at the table will be begging for seconds. Whether you're hosting a family gathering or looking for the perfect side dish that screams comfort and indulgence, this recipe is about to become your new go-to crowd-pleaser.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Potatoes
- Cheddar cheese
- Cream of chicken soup
- Onion
- Butter
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into approximately 1/2-inch cubes, ensuring they are relatively uniform in size for even cooking.
- Finely dice the onion. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed potatoes, sautéed onions, cream of chicken soup, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly to ensure all potatoes are well-coated.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste. Stir until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Transfer the potato mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer to ensure uniform cooking.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help the potatoes steam and cook evenly.
- Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes covered.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes it easier to serve.
- Serve hot as a delicious side dish, garnishing with additional shredded cheese or chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Opt for starchy potatoes like Russet or Yukon Gold for the creamiest texture and best results.
- Uniform Cutting: Ensure your potato cubes are roughly the same size to guarantee even cooking throughout the casserole.
- Don't Skip the Sautéing: Taking the time to sauté the onions brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded for a smoother, more melty consistency.
- Foil Technique: Covering the casserole for the first part of baking helps steam the potatoes and keeps them moist.
- Golden Brown Finish: Removing the foil in the last 15-20 minutes allows the top to crisp up and develop a beautiful golden color.
- Resting Time: Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow it to set and make serving easier.
- Optional Enhancements: Experiment with adding crispy bacon bits, green onions, or a sprinkle of paprika for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg