Ah, cheesy potato casserole—the ultimate comfort food! This dish, bubbling with gooey cheese and tender potatoes, is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. It reminds me of family gatherings, where the aroma alone could draw everyone to the kitchen like moths to a flame.
Steps
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
- Peel and dice the potatoes, then place them in a saucepan filled with cold water. Bring the water to a simmer and cook the potatoes until they can be easily pierced with a fork, which should take about 12-14 minutes.
- In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, salt, pepper, chopped green onion, and half of the shredded cheese, stirring until everything is well mixed.
- Combine the cooked potatoes with the creamy sauce, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. If you are using frozen hash browns instead, make sure to thaw them slightly first.
- Pour the potato mixture into a prepared baking dish and sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and serve it while hot. You can garnish the dish with extra green onions or chives to add a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds of russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2½ tablespoons of melted butter
- ½ cup of cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup of sour cream
- ¼ cup of chopped green onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1564kcal | Carbohydrates: 140g | Protein: 52g | Fat: 92g | Saturated Fat: 52g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 24g | Trans Fat: 1.2g | Cholesterol: 264mg | Sodium: 1936mg | Potassium: 3304mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 8g | Vitamin A: 2992IU | Vitamin C: 44mg | Calcium: 1036mg | Iron: 8mg
FAQ
- Can I prepare the potato casserole in advance?
- Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time when you’re ready to bake it.
- What type of potatoes are best for this casserole?
- Russet potatoes are recommended for their starchy nature, which helps create a creamy texture when baked. However, Yukon Gold potatoes can also be used for a buttery flavor, or you can mix both for a more complex taste.
- How should I store leftover potato casserole?
- Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in a tightly wrapped container for up to 2 months.
- What cheese works best for this recipe?
- A good melting cheese like Cheddar is ideal. Vegan cheddar is also an option, or you can experiment with mozzarella or gouda for different flavors.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the casserole?
- While salt and pepper are essential, you can add a pinch of garlic powder, paprika, or even a dash of cayenne for an extra flavor boost.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: Assemble the casserole the day before you plan to serve it, and store it in the refrigerator. This saves time on busy days and allows the flavors to meld together.
- Even Cooking: Start cooking your peeled and diced potatoes in cold water. This method ensures that they cook evenly and reach the desired fork-tender texture.
- Flavor Boost: Lightly sauté the green onions in melted butter before adding them to the mix for a richer taste. You can also enhance the flavor with seasonings like garlic powder, paprika, or a touch of cayenne.
- Cheese Variations: While cheddar is a classic choice, experimenting with other melting cheeses such as mozzarella or gouda can introduce new flavors to your casserole. Vegan cheddar is a great alternative for those with dietary restrictions.
Equipment
- Saucepan – A good quality saucepan for cooking potatoes.
- Baking Dish – A suitable baking dish for casseroles.
- Non-stick Cooking Spray – For preparing the baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cheese Grater – If not already owned, a cheese grater for shredding cheese.
