Potato Casserole Recipe

Ah, the joys of a comforting, creamy Potato Casserole, where every bite is an indulgence of cheesy goodness mingled with the delightful crunch of a golden crust. This delightful dish is not just a side but an experience that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction, elevating any meal from simple to simply memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Irresistibly Cheesy: The blend of extra sharp cheddar creates a gooey, melty heaven.
  • Crunchy Topping: The crushed cornflakes provide a delightful contrast to the creamy interior.
  • Simple Ingredients: From pantry staples to fresh potatoes, you likely have everything you need!
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a holiday feast, it steals the spotlight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Potato Casserole comes together with ease using simple ingredients, each playing a crucial part in creating its magic. From the savory garlic and onion to the lush cheddar and crunchy cereal, every element contributes uniquely to making this dish irresistible.

  • 3 lbs. Yukon gold potatoes: Their buttery texture and golden color make them ideal for a creamy casserole base.
  • 1/4 cup butter: Melted to create a rich and smooth sauce.
  • 1/2 onion: Adds a depth of flavor and subtle sweetness.
  • 2 cloves garlic: Provides an aromatic touch and enhances the overall taste.
  • 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce to a perfect consistency.
  • 2 cups milk: Any type works, even plant-based, for a versatile and creamy sauce.
  • 3 1/2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese: Divided, with some reserved for a gloriously cheesy topping.
  • 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds a tangy richness to balance the cheddar.
  • 1 cup corn flake cereal: Crushed for a crunchy, delightful finish.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Feel free to personalize this Potato Casserole to match your taste buds. It’s a versatile dish that welcomes creativity and dietary adaptations seamlessly.

  • Herb-Infused: Add some fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to the cheese sauce for an aromatic twist.
  • Bacon Lovers: Sprinkle some crispy bacon bits over the top for a smoky, irresistible upgrade.
  • Vegan Version: Use plant-based milk and cheese to make it vegan while maintaining the creamy appeal.

How to Make Potato Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 375°F. Peel and dice the potatoes for an easy cooking process, and get your chopping skills ready for the onion and garlic. This step is all about prep, ensuring you have everything on hand as you build the casserole.

Step 2: Boil the Potatoes

In a large pot, bring the diced potatoes to a boil until they’re just tender, about 8-10 minutes. This precooking ensures they bake up beautifully soft without becoming mushy in the oven later.

Step 3: Craft the Cheese Sauce

Melt butter in a sizable saucepan, and add your chopped onion and salt, giving it a quick sauté until the onion softens. Stir in the garlic, cooking briefly before incorporating the flour, creating a rich, aromatic base for the sauce.

Step 4: Combine and Bake

Pour in milk while whisking, then add two cups of cheddar and sour cream. Stir until smooth, then drape the sauce over the potatoes in a greased casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese and crushed cereal, and bake to bubbly perfection!

Pro Tips for Making Potato Casserole

  • Perfect Cheese Melt: Use freshly grated cheese for the perfect melt, avoiding pre-shredded cheese, which can have anti-caking agents.
  • Crushed Cereal Topping: For a finer topping, use a rolling pin to crush the corn flakes to the desired consistency.
  • Golden Brown Finish: If the top needs more color, switch to the broiler for the last few minutes.
  • Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for an unexpected warmth that complements the creaminess.

How to Serve Potato Casserole

Potato Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Top your delicious Potato Casserole with fresh chives or parsley, which add a pop of green and a subtle oniony taste that pairs beautifully with the cheesy, creamy base.

Side Dishes

Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. Their fresh, light flavors balance out the richness of the casserole wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a bit of flair, serve individual portions in ramekins. This not only looks elegant but ensures each serving has the perfect amount of crunchy topping and creamy filling.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Potato Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. It makes for an easy, yummy reheat meal that retains all its flavors.

Freezing

You can freeze the casserole for future enjoyment by wrapping it tightly before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake as directed, adding a bit of cheese on top if desired.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This keeps the potatoes fluffy, and the cheese deliciously melty, avoiding the sogginess that might occur with microwaving.

FAQs

  1. Can I substitute the cheese with a different kind?

    Absolutely! While cheddar brings a sharp, creamy element, you can experiment with Gruyere or mozzarella for a different flavor profile.

  2. Is it okay to use red potatoes instead of Yukon gold?

    Yes, red potatoes will work, though they may retain a bit more firmness. This can add a nice texture contrast in the casserole.

  3. How can I make this Potato Casserole gluten-free?

    Use gluten-free flour to thicken the cheese sauce and replace the cornflakes with gluten-free cereal or your favorite gluten-free crumbs.

  4. What if I don’t have cornflakes for the topping?

    No worries, you can substitute with breadcrumbs or crushed ritz crackers, both offering a fantastic crunch.

Final Thoughts

Each spoonful of this glorious Potato Casserole beckons with warmth and flavor. It’s a hug in a dish, waiting for you to indulge and share. Try it out for your next gathering, and watch it become your family’s new favorite. Happy cooking!

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Potato Casserole Recipe

Potato Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 71 reviews
  • Author: Villerius
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 10 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This creamy and cheesy Potato Casserole combines tender Yukon gold potatoes with a rich cheese sauce, topped with crispy crushed cereal for added texture. Perfect as a comforting side dish or a hearty main, it’s baked to golden perfection and guarantees satisfying flavors in every bite.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Potatoes

  • 3 lbs. Yukon gold potatoes

Dairy & Fat

  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 2 cups milk (any kind, including plant-based)
  • 3 1/2 cups extra sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Vegetables & Seasonings

  • 1/2 onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Thickening & Topping

  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup crushed corn flake cereal
  • Remaining 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F and prepare a 9×13 casserole dish by greasing it lightly to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the potatoes: Peel and dice the Yukon gold potatoes into uniform pieces. Add them to a large pot of water and bring to a boil. Cook for 8-10 minutes until fork tender, then drain well and transfer to the prepared casserole dish.
  3. Make the cheese sauce: While the potatoes are boiling, melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and salt; sauté for a few minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute, then gradually pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add 2 cups of cheese and the sour cream, stirring until smooth and melted.
  4. Combine and assemble: Pour the cheese sauce over the cooked potatoes in the casserole dish. Gently stir to coat all the potatoes evenly. Sprinkle the crushed cereal evenly over the top, followed by the remaining 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese.
  5. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden around the edges.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add chopped green onions or cooked bacon bits on top before baking.
  • This dish can be prepared ahead and refrigerated; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cold from the fridge.
  • Feel free to substitute different types of cheese such as mozzarella or Monterey Jack for variation.
  • Using gluten-free flour works well for those with dietary restrictions.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/10 of casserole
  • Calories: 370 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 620 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 12 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 36 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

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