Looking for a crowd-pleasing dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds? Say hello to "Cheesy Potatoes for a Crowd" — the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the satisfying crunch of perfectly baked potatoes. This recipe is not just a side dish; it’s a showstopper that will elevate any gathering, from family dinners to potlucks. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up a delectable dish that serves 12 hungry mouths. Ready to impress your guests? Let’s dive into this cheesy delight!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 12 servings
Ingredients
- 2 bags frozen hash browns
- 1 can cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the center for even cooking.
- Grease a large 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with cooking spray or additional butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, chopped onions, melted butter, and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste. Stir to distribute seasonings evenly throughout the potato mixture.
- Transfer the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer to ensure uniform cooking.
- Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potato mixture.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to help retain moisture and prevent excessive browning.
- Place the covered dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the cheese to set and the potatoes to cool slightly.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnishing with chopped chives or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Hash Browns: Opt for frozen hash browns that are shredded for even cooking and a delightful texture. Avoid the pre-seasoned varieties to control the flavor yourself.
- Mix Ingredients Thoroughly: Make sure to mix all the ingredients in the bowl until they are evenly combined. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
- Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper! Taste the mixture before transferring it to the baking dish to ensure it’s seasoned to your liking.
- Cover for Moisture: Covering the dish with foil during the first part of baking helps keep the potatoes moist. Remove it towards the end for that perfect golden-brown finish.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps the cheese set and makes serving easier, while still keeping the dish warm.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite toppings! Chopped chives, crispy bacon bits, or even a sprinkle of paprika can add an extra layer of flavor and visual appeal.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared a day in advance. Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 23g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg
