This Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe is an absolute comfort food dream that brings together creamy, cheesy, and buttery flavors in one deliciously warm dish. Perfectly tender shredded potatoes combine with sharp cheddar cheese and a golden breadcrumb topping that’s irresistibly crunchy. It’s that kind of recipe you’ll want to make again and again for family gatherings, potlucks, or simply when you crave a hearty, soul-soothing meal. Every bite offers a cozy blend of textures and tastes that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A colorful scene shows a large white bowl with a bright floral rim and a yellow handle in the center on a white marbled surface. Around it are several smaller white bowls and containers: a white bowl filled with shredded orange cheese on the upper left, a small white bowl filled with a creamy white sauce on the right, and another white bowl filled with shredded white cheese on the bottom right. Two cans of creamy sauce are placed near the empty floral bowl. At the bottom left, a woman's hand holds a white plate with chopped white onions. To the right of the empty bowl, a white towel with blue and orange designs holds two blue spatulas with floral patterns. All the items rest on a wooden surface background with the described white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, this Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe truly shines because of how each element plays a vital role. From the tang of sour cream to the savoriness of chicken soup and the crispy breadcrumb topping, every ingredient is essential for that perfect balance of taste and texture.

Salted butter (1/2 cup, divided): Adds richness and helps sauté the onions and garlic while binding the breadcrumbs for the crunchy topping.
Yellow onion (1, chopped): Provides a mild sweetness and aromatic depth to the casserole base.
Garlic (2 cloves, chopped): Offers a subtle kick of flavor that compliments the creamy ingredients beautifully.
Sour cream (16 oz.): Brings a tangy creaminess that keeps the casserole moist and luscious.
Condensed cream of chicken soup (2 cans, 10.5 oz. each): Creates a savory, velvety sauce that ties the potatoes and cheese together.
Shredded cheddar cheese (8 oz.): Delivers that beloved sharp, melty cheesiness essential in every bite.
Frozen shredded hash brown potatoes (30 oz., thawed): The hearty base of the dish, providing fluffy texture and potato comfort.
Breadcrumbs (1 cup): Form a crunchy, golden topping that contrasts perfectly with the creamy casserole.
Chopped parsley (1 tbsp.): Adds a fresh, subtle herbaceous flavor and a pop of color on the finishing touch.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F while heating a medium skillet over medium heat. Melt 2 tablespoons of the salted butter and add the chopped onion. Let it cook for about 5 minutes until it softens and becomes fragrant. Then stir in the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Set this mixture aside to cool slightly, enhancing the casserole’s flavor base.

Step 2: Combine the Creamy Base

In a large mixing bowl, blend together the sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, thawed hash browns, and the sautéed onion and garlic mixture. This creamy and cheesy blend will bind the hearty potatoes and bring everything together in a luscious filling. Transfer this mixture into a butter-greased 3-quart casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.

Step 3: Bake Covered

Cover your casserole dish with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This allows the potatoes to cook through and the flavors to meld, setting a rich, creamy foundation for the breadcrumb topping you will add next.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping and Finish Baking

While the casserole bakes, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl using the microwave for 45 to 60 seconds. Stir in the breadcrumbs and chopped parsley to create a flavorful, golden crust. After the initial baking time, remove the foil, sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly on top, and return the casserole to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the casserole is bubbly all over, promising that perfect mix of creamy and crunchy textures.

How to Serve Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle an extra pinch of fresh chopped parsley or chives right before serving to brighten the flavors and add a delightful green contrast that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Side Dishes

This Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal or a crisp green salad to add some fresh, light balance to the creamy richness of the casserole.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist, try serving individual portions in small ramekins, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of crisp bacon bits. It’s a fun, personalized way to enjoy this classic dish that always impresses at any table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, tightly cover any leftovers with foil or place them in an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, this casserole will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, making it a great make-ahead option for busy weeknights.

Freezing

You can freeze the uncooked assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as usual to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or cover the entire casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven for about 20 to 30 minutes until heated through and bubbly. Adding a few extra minutes uncovered at the end can help crisp the topping again.

FAQs

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?

Absolutely! You can shred fresh potatoes and rinse them well to remove excess starch. Just be sure to dry them thoroughly before mixing to avoid a watery casserole.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe?

Yes, simply substitute the condensed cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian mushroom or cream of celery soup, and you’ll have a delicious meat-free version without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, use vegan butter, dairy-free sour cream, and a plant-based cheese alternative. Choose a dairy-free condensed soup as well to keep the creamy texture intact.

How do I make the casserole more crispy on top?

For extra crunch, mix a bit of grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for the topping or consider broiling the casserole for the last few minutes while watching closely to avoid burning.

Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?

Definitely! Just use a larger baking dish and adjust the baking time accordingly, checking for bubbly edges and a golden top to ensure perfect cooking throughout.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that just feels like home. With its creamy potatoes, melty cheese, and irresistible crunchy topping, it’s a standout side or main that’s sure to become a family favorite. I can’t wait for you to try it and have it bring warmth and joy to your table as it has to mine!

Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe

Print Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

A comforting and delicious cheesy potato casserole made with shredded hash browns, sour cream, cheddar cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. This classic casserole is perfect as a side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.

Author: Paula
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 10 servings
Category: Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1/2 cup salted butter, divided, plus more for greasing the pan
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, chopped
16 oz sour cream
2 (10.5 oz) cans condensed cream of chicken soup
8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
1 (30 oz) bag frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed

Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

Preheat and sauté onion and garlic: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Heat a medium skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until starting to soften. Then add the chopped garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
Combine casserole ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sour cream, condensed cream of chicken soup, shredded cheddar cheese, thawed hash browns, and the cooked onion and garlic mixture. Stir well to evenly mix all ingredients.
Assemble and bake casserole: Grease a 3-quart casserole dish with butter. Transfer the mixture to the dish and cover with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and potatoes to cook through.
Prepare breadcrumb topping: While the casserole bakes, melt the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter in a small bowl using the microwave for 45 to 60 seconds. Stir in the breadcrumbs and chopped parsley until well combined.
Add topping and continue baking: Remove the casserole from the oven and carefully uncover it. Spread the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 25 to 30 minutes until the topping is golden brown and bubbly all over.

Notes

Thaw frozen hash browns completely and drain excess moisture to prevent a watery casserole.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the cream of chicken soup with cream of mushroom soup.
You can add cooked bacon or ham for extra flavor.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
If you prefer a crispier topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes but watch closely to avoid burning.

Cheesy Potato Casserole Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ingredients You’ll Need