If you're searching for the ultimate comfort food that will leave your taste buds dancing, look no further than this From Scratch Cheesy Potato Casserole! Bursting with layers of tender potatoes, creamy goodness, and ooey-gooey cheddar cheese, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights in, this casserole is not just a meal; it's a warm hug on a plate. Ready to elevate your cooking game and impress your guests? Dive into this recipe and discover the secrets to creating a cheesy masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and sliced
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and thoroughly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Wash, peel, and slice potatoes into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. Soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 5 minutes to remove excess starch, then drain and pat dry with clean kitchen towels.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, milk, chopped onions, salt, and pepper. Whisk these ingredients until they form a smooth, creamy mixture.
- Layer half of the potato slices evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice.
- Pour half of the cream mixture over the potato layer, ensuring even coverage. Sprinkle one cup of shredded cheddar cheese over this layer.
- Add the remaining potato slices in another even layer, then cover with the rest of the cream mixture.
- Top the casserole with the remaining cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ensuring complete coverage.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, creating a tight seal to trap moisture and help potatoes cook evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes covered, then remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 10-15 minutes before serving, which allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired, and serve hot as a delicious side dish.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets. They become fluffy and tender when baked, making your casserole even more delightful.
- Don't Skip Soaking: Soaking the sliced potatoes in cold water for 5 minutes helps remove excess starch, resulting in a creamier casserole. Make sure to pat them dry afterward to avoid excess moisture.
- Layer Wisely: When layering the potatoes and cream mixture, ensure even coverage to allow for consistent cooking. This helps every bite be just as delicious as the last.
- Cover Tightly: Covering the baking dish with aluminum foil is crucial for trapping moisture and ensuring the potatoes cook evenly. Just remember to remove it for the last 15 minutes to achieve that golden, bubbly top!
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors. Patience is key to a perfect presentation!
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor that complements the richness of the casserole beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 55mg
