🥔 Baked Cheesy Potato Casserole

📋 Basic Information

• Servings: 8–10 portions

• Total Time: 1 hour (20 min prep + 40 min bake)

• Skill Level: Easy

🛒 Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900 g) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1 cup (240 ml) sour cream

• ½ cup (120 ml) milk (warm)

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted

• 1 cup (120 g) cream cheese, softened

• 2 cups (200 g) shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup (100 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)

• ½ cup (60 g) chopped green onions or chives (for garnish)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.

2. Cook potatoes: Boil cubed potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15–20 minutes). Drain well.

3. Mash base: In a large bowl, mash potatoes until smooth.

4. Add creaminess: Stir in butter, cream cheese, sour cream, and warm milk until creamy.

5. Season: Mix in salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

6. Layer casserole: Spread half of the potato mixture into the baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the cheddar and mozzarella. Add remaining potatoes and top with the rest of the cheese.

7. Bake: Place in oven for 30–40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

8. Finish: Garnish with chopped green onions or chives before serving.

💡 Notes and Tips

• Serving: Perfect for holiday dinners, potlucks, or as a hearty side dish.

• Variations: Add cooked bacon bits, jalapeños for spice, or swap cheddar for Gruyère.

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in oven for best texture.

🌱 Benefits & Vitamins

• Potatoes: Rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Provide energy through complex carbs.

• Cheese: Excellent source of calcium, protein, and vitamin B12.

• Milk & Sour Cream: Provide vitamin D and healthy fats.

• Green Onions: Add vitamin K, antioxidants, and freshness.

✨ Extra Tips

• For extra crispiness, broil the casserole for 2–3 minutes at the end.

• Use a mix of cheeses for deeper flavor (cheddar + Gruyère + Parmesan).

• Roast potatoes instead of boiling for a richer taste.

• Add breadcrumbs on top for a crunchy finish.

🔍 Top FAQ

Q1: Can I make cheesy potato casserole ahead of time? Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Q2: Can I freeze potato casserole? Yes, freeze before baking. Thaw overnight and bake when ready.

Q3: What cheese works best for potato casserole? Cheddar, mozzarella, Gruyère, or a blend for maximum flavor.

Q4: How do I prevent watery casserole? Drain potatoes thoroughly and avoid excess liquid in the mix.

Q5: Is cheesy potato casserole healthy? It’s indulgent but provides protein, calcium, and vitamins. Balance with portion control.