Description
This Cheesy Potato Casserole is a classic comfort food recipe featuring tender potatoes baked in a creamy cheese sauce and topped with a crispy golden crust. Perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings, this dish combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, sour cream, and green onions for an irresistible side that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 cups peeled and diced potatoes (about 4 medium potatoes)
Cheese Sauce
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping
- 1 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2 green onions, sliced (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Potatoes: Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes into evenly sized chunks to ensure uniform cooking. Boil them in salted water until they are fork-tender but not falling apart, typically about 10-15 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to create a roux, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Gradually whisk in the milk and continue to cook until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
- Combine Potatoes and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked potatoes into the cheese sauce, mixing until the potatoes are evenly coated with the creamy mixture.
- Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with melted butter and sliced green onions if using. This will create a crispy topping for the casserole.
- Assemble Casserole: Transfer the potato and cheese mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the buttery topping over the surface.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with additional green onions or fresh herbs if desired for extra flavor and color.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- Add cooked bacon or ham for a meaty variation.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a stronger flavor or a blend of cheeses for complexity.
- Make ahead and refrigerate before baking; add extra baking time if baked cold.
- If avoiding gluten, use gluten-free flour and gluten-free crumbs or crushed nuts for topping.
