Name: Cheesy Potato Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns, thawed; ¼ cup (½ stick) butter; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded; 1½ cups sour cream; ¼ cup (½ stick) butter, melted; ½ medium onion, chopped; 2 teaspoons garlic, minced; ¼ cup flour; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; ½ teaspoon pepper; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon dried mustard; ½ cup chicken broth, room temperature; ½ cup milk, room temperature; ¼ cup (½ stick) butter; 3 cups corn flakes

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Cheesy Potato Casserole is that cozy dish we all crave, especially when the weather turns chilly or when you just want something comforting. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with the crunch of corn flakes that makes every bite delightful. Imagine gathering around the table with your loved ones, passing around a bubbling dish of this goodness—it’s simply irresistible! Whether it’s a bustling weeknight or a festive gathering, this casserole fits right in. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, using a few straightforward ingredients that you might even have at home. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s get started on making this cheesy, comforting dish that will surely warm your heart and stomach!

Why This Recipe Works

The harmony of creamy, cheesy flavors with a crunchy topping strikes the perfect balance in this Cheesy Potato Casserole. Utilizing frozen cubed hash browns simplifies preparation while maintaining a hearty texture. Plus, by layering the sauce directly into the potato mixture, you ensure maximum flavor absorption. The result is a casserole that brings everything together in each delicious bite.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Potato Casserole

You’ll fall head over heels for this casserole, as it’s comfort food at its finest. It’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, filling your kitchen with warmth and mouthwatering aromas. With its easy preparation and accessible ingredients, this recipe quickly becomes a go-to for those busy weeknights. Furthermore, it’s versatile enough to pair beautifully with various main dishes or even stand alone as a delicious vegetarian delight.

Ingredients

You’ll need the following ingredients to make your Cheesy Potato Casserole:

32 ounces frozen cubed hash browns, thawed
¼ cup (½ stick) butter
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1½ cups sour cream
¼ cup (½ stick) butter, melted
½ medium onion, chopped
2 teaspoons garlic, minced
¼ cup flour
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon dried mustard
½ cup chicken broth, room temperature
½ cup milk, room temperature
¼ cup (½ stick) butter
3 cups corn flakes

Preparing the Cheesy Potato Casserole

Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. Now, spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray to prevent any sticking. This ensures that your casserole comes out beautifully after baking.

Mix the Cheesy Potato Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the thawed hash browns, ¼ cup of butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly distributed. This creamy potato base is what makes this dish so special!

Craft the Creamy Sauce

In a medium skillet over medium heat, melt ¼ cup of butter. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma. Now, incorporate the flour, kosher salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and dried mustard; cook for another minute, stirring constantly. Gradually whisk in the milk and then the chicken broth until the sauce thickens and is well-blended. Once that’s done, pour the sauce over the potato mixture and mix until everything is fully combined.

Create the Topping

In a large, microwave-safe bowl, melt ¼ cup of butter. After that, add the corn flakes to the melted butter and toss until they’re evenly coated. This topping will give your casserole that wonderful crunch.

Assemble and Bake

Pour the cheesy potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Then, top it off with the buttered corn flakes, ensuring you have an even layer across the casserole. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly. After baked to perfection, let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cheesy Potato Casserole alongside grilled meats like chicken or steak for a complete meal. You can even pair it with a simple salad to balance out its richness. It makes for a satisfying addition to any dinner table!

Tips for Success

Make sure to thaw the potatoes completely so they cook evenly. If you’re aiming for extra creaminess, consider adding another half cup of sour cream to the mix—it’s sure to elevate the richness.

Variations

Feel free to get creative! You can swap out cheddar for pepper jack cheese to add a spicy kick. Or, for even more flavor and protein, add cooked bacon or ham into the mix. The possibilities are endless!

Storage Tips

After enjoying this dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Potato Casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?
Definitely! Grate fresh potatoes, but keep in mind they may require additional cooking time.

What can I substitute for sour cream?
Greek yogurt makes a fantastic alternative, giving you a similar tangy flavor and texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make it gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

How can I reheat leftovers?
Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for easy convenience.

This Cheesy Potato Casserole is a true joy, blending creamy, cheesy goodness with a satisfying crunch. It’s not merely a dish; it’s a love letter to comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners and holiday gatherings alike. Prepare to enjoy every cheesy, crispy bite!