Cheesy Potato Casserole

A beloved comfort food, Cheesy Potato Casserole combines rich, oozy cheese with creamy potatoes and a crunchy breadcrumb or hash brown topping on top. This dish, with its pleasant texture and cozy warmth, is a favorite for Christmas feasts and potlucks. This post explores its variations and how to achieve flawlessness.

Tasting Notes

Expect a delightful combination of velvety mashed potatoes layered with a gooey cheese blend, forming a golden-brown crust on top. The crispy edges provide a satisfying contrast to the creamy interior. This Cheesy Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients

• 5 cups peeled and diced russet potatoes
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
• Chopped fresh chives for garnish

Kitchen Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Potato peeler
• Potato masher
• Casserole dish (9×13 inches)
• Mixing spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater
• Aluminum foil

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender. Drain and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
3. Mash the potatoes until smooth, then add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, sour cream, melted butter, minced garlic, onion powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Gradually add the milk while continuing to mix, ensuring a creamy consistency.
5. Transfer the cheesy potato mixture to a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish, spreading it evenly.
6. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top for an extra cheesy crust.
7. Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
9. Garnish with chopped fresh chives before serving.

Pro Tips

• For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the potato mixture.
• Experiment with different cheese blends for a unique flavor profile.
• Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to ensure optimal consistency.

Variations

• Add crumbled bacon or diced ham for a meaty twist.
• Mix in sautéed onions or bell peppers for added depth of flavor.
• Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for a fresh touch.

FAQs