A close-up of Cheesy Potatoes casserole with a golden crispy topping on a white plate, a fork scoops a portion.

Easy Cheesy Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish

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If you’re on the hunt for a melt-in-your-mouth side dish that disappears fast at any gathering, these cheesy potatoes are destined to become your new favorite. Whether you know them as funeral potatoes or hash brown casserole, this classic recipe is a comforting staple for holiday dinners, potlucks, and busy weeknights alike. Loaded with creamy cheese sauce, a buttery cornflake topping, and rich flavor in every bite, cheesy potatoes are irresistible—always requested, never any leftovers!

A close-up of a spoon lifting a creamy, cheesy potato casserole with a golden brown crispy topping from a white baking dish.
Indulge in this irresistible cheesy potato casserole, featuring a creamy interior and a perfectly golden, crispy topping. A comforting classic for any meal!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Potatoes

  • Effortless to make: Toss together just a handful of simple ingredients—frozen hash browns, sour cream, cheese, and cream of chicken soup—and bake.
  • Versatile: Perfect for Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, or any occasion begging for comfort food.
  • Customizable: Swap toppings, cheeses, or even use fresh potatoes from your garden.
  • Crowd pleaser: Kids and adults alike rave about the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Ingredient Spotlight

Overhead view of various casserole ingredients including diced potatoes, shredded cheese, scallions, and sauces on a white surface.
All the delicious components gathered for a homemade Cheesy Potatoes ! A large bowl of diced potatoes takes center stage, surrounded by fresh and flavorful additions. Get ready to cook up something comforting!

Here’s what makes this potato casserole a standout at any table:

  • Hash Browns: Frozen diced or shredded potatoes are the secret to a quick and easy bake. Make sure they’re thawed (excess moisture can make the casserole runny). Prefer using real potatoes? Simply cook, dice, or shred fresh potatoes—no need for freezing.
  • Sour Cream: Adds tang and a creamy texture.
  • Cream of Chicken Soup: Depth and comfort in every spoonful. Substitute with cream of celery or mushroom soup to fit dietary preferences.
  • Butter: Mixed into the filling and topped on crispy cornflakes for that golden finish.
  • Onions: Fresh green onions boost flavor, but onion powder works in a pinch.
  • Cheddar Cheese: The all-important ingredient—sharp cheddar guarantees bold flavor. Feel free to substitute part or all with white cheese for variation.
  • Cornflake Topping: Crush and sprinkle on top. Ritz crackers, potato chips, or panko breadcrumbs make delicious alternatives.

Step-by-Step Directions

An overhead shot of a white rectangular baking dish filled with a creamy casserole topped with golden cornflakes on a white background.
An overhead food photograph showcasing a rectangular white ceramic baking dish filled with a white, creamy casserole mixture, generously covered with a golden-brown cornflake topping. The dish sits on a clean, bright white marble or light concrete surface, highlighting the food in a high-key, appealing style. Ideal for recipe blogs and food content.
  1. Preheat the oven: Set to 350°F and butter a 9×13-inch dish.
  2. Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine thawed hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, green onions, salt, pepper, melted butter, and cheese. Stir well.
  3. Spread & Top: Spread the mixture in your dish. Scatter extra cheese if desired. Finish with crushed cornflakes and the remaining melted butter.
  4. Bake: 30–40 minutes, until golden and bubbling hot. Let rest 5–10 minutes before serving to set nicely.

Pro Tips & Variations Cheesy Potatoes

  • Thaw Hash Browns: Never skip this step! If using fresh potatoes, cook and cool before shredding/dicing.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble (minus topping) and refrigerate up to 48 hours. Add topping and bake when ready.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Freeze assembled (untopped) in a disposable pan for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight, top, and bake.
  • Lighten It Up: Use light sour cream, less cheese, and skip the extra butter/cornflakes.

Filling the Gap: Texture & Flavor Enhancements

Gap fixed: Many recipes skip extra mix-ins—don’t! You can add flavor and texture by mixing in:

  • Cooked bacon, ham, or chicken for a heartier Cheesy Potatoes.
  • Sautéed veggies (bell peas, peppers, mushrooms, even broccoli) for color and nutrition.
  • Crushed red pepper or smoked paprika for a gentle kick.

Feel free to finish with a sprinkle of parsley or chives for freshness.

How To Serve Cheesy Potatoes

Cheesy potatoes shine as a side for any festive holiday or family meal. They pair perfectly with baked ham, roasted turkey, hearty beef, and more. For a full roundup of inspiration, visit our Top 50 Christmas Dinner Recipes—this casserole features as a top-rated side you’ll want on your menu.

If you love these, definitely check out our classic Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole for a slightly different take—just as creamy and crowd-pleasing!

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

  • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container up to 4 days. Not recommended: freezing leftovers, as texture suffers.
  • Make ahead: Assemble, cover, and chill (without topping) for up to two days. Top and bake before serving.
  • Freeze (before baking): Up to 2 months (untopped). Thaw, add topping, and bake fresh.

Nutrition Snapshot (per serving)

  • Calories: 264
  • Carbs: 25g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 16g
  • Sodium: 519mg

Values will vary by toppings, cheese choices, and add-ins.

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