Easy Cheesy Potatoes

If you’re searching for a warm, creamy, and crowd-pleasing side dish, these Easy Cheesy Potatoes are the perfect choice. This classic recipe delivers tender potatoes baked in a rich, velvety cheese sauce that pairs beautifully with any main course. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, bringing a dish to a potluck, or preparing a simple weeknight meal, this recipe guarantees flavor, simplicity, and satisfaction. Made with everyday ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Ingredients

• 3 pounds potatoes or 30 ounces country style hash browns, thawed
• ¼ cup melted butter
• 1 cup sour cream
• 10.5 ounces condensed cream of chicken soup or cheddar cheese soup, 1 can
• ¼ cup sliced green onions or 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 375°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• If using baking potatoes or russets, peel and cut them into ½-inch pieces.
• Place the potatoes in a saucepan and cover with cold salted water, about 1 inch above the potatoes. Bring to a boil and cook for 12 to 14 minutes or until fork tender. Drain and let cool slightly.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together melted butter, sour cream, condensed soup, and green onions. Stir in 1 ½ cups of cheddar cheese along with the slightly cooled potatoes.
• Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
• Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese on top and bake for 28 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Tips

• Serve hot as a comforting side dish alongside roasted meats, chicken, or pork.
• Pair with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Top with extra shredded cheese or crispy bacon bits for added flavor.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to brighten the dish.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked cheesy potatoes in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
• Reheating Tips: For best results, cover with foil when reheating to prevent over-browning and keep the potatoes creamy.

Variations

1. Bacon Cheddar Potatoes – Add ½ cup cooked, crumbled bacon to the potato mixture before baking.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Cheesy Potatoes – Mix in 2 chopped jalapeños and a pinch of cayenne for heat.
3. Loaded Cheesy Potatoes – Top with sour cream, green onions, bacon, and extra cheese after baking.
4. Broccoli Cheddar Potatoes – Fold in 1 cup steamed broccoli florets for a veggie boost.
5. Garlic Parmesan Potatoes – Add 2 cloves minced garlic and ¼ cup grated Parmesan to the cheese mixture.
6. Sour Cream & Onion Potatoes – Use 2 teaspoons onion powder and top with fried onions.
7. Creamy Mushroom Cheesy Potatoes – Sauté 1 cup mushrooms and mix into the potato mixture.
8. Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Potatoes – Add 1 teaspoon chipotle chili powder for a smoky flavor.
9. Herbed Cheesy Potatoes – Mix in 1 teaspoon dried thyme and 1 teaspoon dried rosemary.
10. Ham & Cheese Potatoes – Stir in 1 cup diced cooked ham for a heartier dish.
11. Tex-Mex Cheesy Potatoes – Add ½ cup corn, ½ cup black beans, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning.
12. Cream Cheese Cheesy Potatoes – Mix in 4 oz cream cheese for extra creaminess.
13. Buffalo Cheesy Potatoes – Stir in ¼ cup buffalo sauce and top with blue cheese crumbles.
14. Cheesy Potato Casserole with Peppers – Add ½ cup diced bell peppers for color and flavor.
15. Cheesy Potato Gratin – Layer thinly sliced potatoes with cheese mixture for a classic gratin effect.

FAQs

Can this be frozen after baking?
It’s best to freeze before baking. Fully baked cheesy potatoes may lose texture when reheated from frozen.

Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?
Yes, frozen hash browns work perfectly and save time; just thaw before mixing.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I substitute the sour cream?
Yes, Greek yogurt works well as a healthier alternative.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can use dairy-free sour cream and cheese alternatives.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?
Peeling is optional if using russets; for hash browns, they’re already prepared.

Can I bake this in a smaller or larger dish?
Yes, adjust the baking time slightly if using a different size dish.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes, broccoli, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be added for extra flavor and nutrition.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Cover with foil for the first 20 minutes and uncover for the last 8–10 minutes to brown.

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of cheddar?
Yes, mozzarella or a blend of cheeses works, but cheddar gives the best classic flavor.

Easy Cheesy Potatoes are a timeless comfort food that never disappoints. With their creamy texture, rich flavor, and simple preparation, they make the perfect addition to holiday dinners, potlucks, or any meal in need of a cozy side dish. This recipe is versatile, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Enjoy the irresistible blend of tender potatoes and melted cheddar cheese in every bite.

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