Creamy Cheesy Potatoes Recipe

Looking for the perfect side dish to elevate your next family dinner or holiday gathering? This creamy cheesy potatoes recipe is a crowd-pleaser that combines tender potatoes, rich cheese, and a velvety sauce into a dish that’s both indulgent and comforting. Whether you’re hosting a cozy weeknight meal or a festive celebration, this gluten-free, kid-approved casserole is guaranteed to steal the show. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a warm, gooey dish ready in under an hour. Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite add-ins like bacon or even a dairy-free twist. Let’s dive into how to make this irresistible dish, along with tips to ensure it’s perfect every time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious creamy cheesy potatoes recipe. The ingredients are listed in order of use for clarity:

• 4 large russet potatoes (or Yukon Gold for a creamier texture)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or olive oil for a lighter option)
• 1 small onion, finely diced (optional, for extra flavor)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheeses, see below)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for a nutty, salty kick)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for a crispy topping)
• 2 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, for added flavor)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Cheesy Potatoes?

Follow these simple, step-by-step instructions to create a perfectly creamy and cheesy potato casserole:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spray cooking spray or butter on a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
2. Prepare the potatoes: Peel the potatoes and slice them into ¼-inch thick rounds. For a quicker prep, you can use a mandoline slicer. To keep the slices from browning, submerge them in a bowl of cold water.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.  Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes transparent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Cook the minced garlic for 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
4. Make the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for two to three minutes, or until just thickened. Take off the heat and melt 1 cup of the cheddar cheese by stirring it in.
5. Assemble the casserole: Drain the potato slices and pat them dry. In the baking dish, arrange half of the potatoes in layers. Cover the potatoes with half of the creamy cheese sauce. Keep doing this with the remaining sauce and potatoes. Top with the remaining Parmesan and cheddar cheese. If breadcrumbs are being used, distribute them evenly across the dish.
6. Bake the casserole: Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly. If adding bacon, sprinkle it on during the last 5 minutes of baking.
7. Garnish and serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a splash of color.

What Cheese is Best for Cheesy Potatoes?

Choosing the right cheese is key to achieving that gooey, flavorful texture. Cheddar is a classic choice for its sharp, tangy flavor and excellent melting properties. A medium or sharp cheddar works best for bold flavor. For a more complex taste, consider a blend of cheeses like mozzarella for stretchiness, Monterey Jack for creaminess, or Parmesan for a nutty finish. If you want a gourmet twist, try Gruyère or Fontina for a slightly sweet, nutty profile. Avoid pre-shredded cheeses, as they often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your sauce. Grate your cheese for the smoothest, creamiest results.

How to Keep Cheesy Potatoes from Getting Watery?

A wet casserole is not what anyone wants! To ensure your creamy cheesy potatoes stay rich and velvety, follow these tips:

• Pat the potatoes dry: After slicing, make sure to pat the potato slices dry with a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
• Cook the sauce properly: Simmer the cream sauce until it thickens slightly before pouring it over the potatoes. This helps create a cohesive, creamy texture.
• Use starchy potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes absorb liquid better than waxy varieties, reducing the risk of a watery dish.
• Avoid overcooking: Overbaking can cause the cream to separate, so stick to the recommended baking time and check for doneness.

Can You Make Cheesy Potatoes Ahead of Time?

Yes, creamy cheesy potatoes are a great make-ahead dish! To prepare in advance, assemble the casserole up to the point of baking, but don’t bake it yet. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to account for the cold dish. This makes it perfect for holiday meals or busy weeknights when you want to prep ahead.

How to Reheat Creamy Cheesy Potatoes?

To reheat your cheesy potatoes while keeping them creamy and delicious:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftovers in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for 15-20 minutes until warmed through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.
• Microwave: For a quick option, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway to ensure even heating.
• Add moisture if needed: If the casserole seems dry, drizzle a tablespoon of cream or milk over it before reheating.

What Potatoes are Best for Cheesy Potato Casserole?

The best potatoes for a cheesy potato casserole are starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold. Russets are ideal for their high starch content, which helps absorb the creamy sauce and creates a fluffy texture. Yukon Golds offer a slightly creamier, buttery flavor and hold their shape well, making them a great choice for a richer casserole. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or fingerling potatoes, as they can become gummy and don’t absorb the sauce as effectively.

Can You Freeze Cheesy Potato Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze cheesy potato casserole! To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Wrap the dish tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time. For best results, freeze without the breadcrumb topping and add it fresh before baking to maintain its crunch.

How Long to Bake Cheesy Potatoes?

The total baking time for creamy cheesy potatoes is about 45-50 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Bake covered with foil for the first 30 minutes to cook the potatoes evenly, then uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly top. Check that the potatoes are fork-tender before removing them from the oven. If the top browns too quickly, cover it with foil again to prevent burning.

Can You Add Bacon to Cheesy Potatoes?

Absolutely! Adding bacon to creamy cheesy potatoes takes the flavor to the next level. Cook 2-4 slices of bacon until crispy, then crumble them and sprinkle over the casserole during the last 5 minutes of baking. This adds a smoky, savory crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese and potatoes. For a vegetarian option, try adding sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for a similar umami boost.

How to Make Cheesy Potatoes Without Cream of Soup?

If you prefer to avoid canned cream soup, you can still achieve a rich, creamy texture with a homemade sauce. In this recipe, we use heavy cream and melted cheese to create a luscious sauce without relying on processed ingredients. To make it even healthier, you can substitute half-and-half or a mixture of milk and sour cream. For a thicker sauce, whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of flour or cornstarch into the butter and aromatics before adding the cream. This creates a velvety base that’s just as indulgent as the classic version but fresher and more customizable.

Nutrition Information

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 12g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 22g

Final Thoughts

This creamy cheesy potatoes recipe is a versatile, comforting dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it alongside a holiday roast or as a standalone comfort food, it’s guaranteed to impress. Try it out and let the cheesy goodness bring a smile to your table!

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