Simply Potatoes Cheesy Potato Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, gooey, and oh-so-creamy Simply Potatoes Cheesy Potato Recipe to bring everyone to the table. Imagine a spoonful of rich, cheesy hashbrown casserole with perfectly melted butter, a crispy corn flakes topping, and a velvety mix of shredded cheese and sour cream. It’s comfort food at its finest—simple to make, yet packed with bold, irresistible flavors. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or need a crowd-pleasing side dish for a gathering, this casserole recipe is about to become your new go-to.

The best part? You don’t need to be a kitchen pro to whip up this dish! Just toss everything into a large bowl, mix it up, spread it in a prepared baking dish, and let the preheated oven do the magic. In no time, you’ll have a golden, bubbling, cheesy potato casserole that pairs beautifully with any meal. Ready to dig in? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

Every great cheesy potato casserole starts with the perfect ingredients. Let’s break it down and make this dish irresistible!

Frozen hash browns – These make life easy! No peeling, chopping, or grating required. Just thaw them first for the best texture.
Shredded cheese – Cheddar cheese is the star here! It melts beautifully, creating that gooey, golden layer everyone loves.
Sour cream – This adds a rich, creamy texture that balances the cheese and makes the casserole extra smooth.
Cream of chicken soup – This sneaky little ingredient boosts the flavor and makes everything super creamy. You can swap it for cream of mushroom soup if you prefer.
Melted butter – It brings a rich, buttery flavor and helps everything bake to golden perfection.
Corn flakes – These create a crunchy topping, adding the perfect contrast to the creamy filling.
Seasonings – A little salt, pepper, and garlic powder give this dish a well-rounded, delicious taste.
Onions – A bit of diced onion adds a slight crunch and a pop of flavor without overpowering the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a cheesy hashbrown casserole that’s creamy on the inside and crispy on top!

Preheat the oven – Set your preheated oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking and a perfect golden crust.
Prepare the mixture – In a large bowl, combine the frozen hash browns, shredded cheese, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and melted butter. Stir well to make sure everything is evenly coated.
Season it up – Add salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste. If you like a little heat, toss in some paprika or cayenne.
Transfer to a baking dish – Grease a prepared baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and spread the mixture evenly. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Top it off – Crush the corn flakes, mix them with a little melted butter, and sprinkle them over the casserole. This adds a crispy, buttery finish.
Bake until golden – Cover the dish with plastic wrap and bake for 40 minutes. Then, remove the cover and bake for another 10-15 minutes until the top is crispy and golden.

Serving

This dish is warm, creamy, and absolutely delicious! Here’s how to serve it best:

Serves: 6-8 people (perfect for family meals or potlucks).
Serve it fresh: Scoop onto plates while warm, letting that melty cheese stretch.
Pair it up: It goes great with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or even a fresh green salad.
For extra flavor: Sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese on top just before serving.

For a fun twist, serve this cheesy hash brown casserole as a brunch dish with eggs or as a side at holiday gatherings!

Tips and Hacks

Want to make this casserole recipe even better? Try these simple tips!

For extra creaminess: Mix in 4 oz of softened cream cheese. It adds a velvety texture that’s hard to resist.
Make it ahead: You can prepare the dish the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. Just bake when ready!
Crispier topping: Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to get that perfect golden crunch.
Storage tips: Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, bake at 350°F until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 30g
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 450mg
Fiber: 2g

Note: These values are estimates and may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Prep Time

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Note: Prep time may vary depending on ingredient preparation.

This simply potatoes cheesy potato recipe is creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious. Try it today and enjoy a comforting, homemade favorite!

For a lighter dessert option after enjoying this simply potatoes cheesy potato recipe, try this 100-Calorie Blueberry Ricotta Cake. It’s a soft, delicious cake made with melted butter, fresh blueberries, and creamy ricotta. Perfectly balanced in sweetness, it’s a great way to end your meal on a lighter note while still enjoying rich flavors.

The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole

What Makes This Cheesy Hashbrown Casserole Special

This cheesy potato casserole is the definition of comfort food. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with rich flavor, making it a must-have at family dinners and potlucks. The combination of shredded cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup creates a smooth, velvety texture that blends perfectly with the frozen hash browns.

Then, a crunchy layer of corn flakes on top adds the perfect contrast. Plus, the recipe is simple—just mix everything in a large bowl, pour it into a prepared baking dish, and bake in a preheated oven until golden and bubbly. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this dish is always a hit. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, and you can even tweak the ingredients to suit your taste. Once you try this cheesy hashbrown casserole, it will become a household favorite!

Why This Recipe is a Family Favorite

Families love this simply potatoes cheesy potato recipe because it’s quick to prepare and always tastes amazing. The shredded hash browns soak up all the flavors from the melted butter, creamy sauce, and gooey cheddar cheese, creating a dish that’s impossible to resist. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Also, it’s incredibly versatile—you can serve it with roasted chicken, grilled fish, or even as a side for brunch. Even picky eaters can’t get enough of its rich, cheesy goodness! This dish is also a tradition in many homes, often referred to as funeral potatoes because of its comforting nature. Once baked to perfection, the crispy, golden crust locks in the cheesy, creamy center, making every bite satisfying. Whether for a casual dinner or a holiday feast, this dish always brings people together.

Why Families Love This Recipe:

Feature	Benefit
Quick to Prepare	Only takes a few simple steps
Crowd-Pleaser	Loved by kids and adults alike
Customizable	Can be tweaked with different cheeses or toppings
Comforting	Perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to holidays

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Cheesy Potato Casserole

The Role of Creamy and Cheesy Ingredients

The magic of this casserole recipe comes from its rich and creamy base. Sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, and melted butter work together to create a smooth and flavorful foundation. The shredded cheese, particularly cheddar cheese, melts beautifully, giving the dish its signature gooey texture. Using high-quality cheese is key—it adds depth and richness.

The combination of creamy and cheesy elements ensures that every bite is packed with comforting flavors. Plus, these ingredients help bind the dish together, making sure the shredded hash browns stay moist and flavorful. For extra creaminess, you can use a blend of cheeses, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack. If you want a sharper taste, a mix of mild and sharp cheddar works well. The balance of creaminess and cheesiness makes this cheesy hashbrown casserole absolutely irresistible.

Choosing the Best Frozen Hash Browns for Texture

Picking the right frozen hash browns is important for achieving the perfect texture in your cheesy potato casserole. Some brands have thinner cuts, while others are chunkier. A finer shred creates a softer, melt-in-your-mouth experience, while thicker cuts add more bite. When choosing frozen hash browns, look for ones that are:

Evenly shredded – Ensures they cook evenly in the preheated oven
Not overly moist – Helps prevent a mushy texture
Free from added seasoning – Allows for better control of flavors
Well-separated – Avoids clumping when mixing in the large bowl

To get the best results, thaw your frozen hash browns before mixing. This ensures they absorb all the delicious flavors from the creamy sauce and shredded cheese. If you forget to thaw them, don’t worry! Just bake for a few extra minutes to let everything cook through properly.

Expert Tips for a Golden and Crispy Topping

The Secret to a Perfect Corn Flakes Crust

The crunchy topping is what makes this cheesy hash brown dish extra special. Corn flakes are a classic choice because they add a crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy center. The key to achieving the perfect crust is mixing crushed corn flakes with melted butter before sprinkling them over the casserole. This helps them crisp up as they bake. Another trick is to lightly press the topping down so it sticks well. This prevents it from sliding off when serving. If you like extra crunch, bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to get an even golden-brown finish. The result is a crispy, buttery crust that makes every bite even more satisfying.

Alternative Toppings for Extra Crunch and Flavor

While corn flakes create a classic crunchy topping, there are plenty of other ways to add texture and flavor. Here are some great options:

Crushed crackers – Buttery and flaky, these add a delicious crunch
Panko breadcrumbs – Light and crispy, perfect for a subtle crunch
Toasted breadcrumbs with herbs – Adds extra flavor with seasonings like garlic powder and paprika
Shredded cheese on top – Creates a crispy, cheesy crust when broiled

Each topping gives a slightly different finish, so you can experiment and find your favorite. No matter which you choose, a crunchy top makes this simply potatoes cheesy potato recipe even more irresistible!

Make-Ahead and Storage Solutions for Busy Days

How to Prepare the Casserole in Advance

This cheesy potato casserole is a lifesaver when you need to plan ahead. You can mix all the ingredients in a large bowl, transfer them to a baking dish with nonstick cooking spray, and then cover it with plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, remove it from the fridge, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes, and then bake as directed. This helps ensure even cooking.

Best Ways to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Leftovers of this cheesy hashbrowns dish taste just as good the next day! To store properly:

Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Freeze – Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months
Reheat in the oven – Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes until hot
Microwave for quick heating – Heat in 30-second bursts until warmed through

Reheating in the oven helps maintain the crispy topping, while the microwave is great for quick leftovers. No matter how you store it, this cheesy potato casserole remains delicious every time!

Customizing Your Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole for Every Occasion

Lighter Ingredient Swaps for a Healthier Dish

You don’t have to give up flavor to make this cheesy potato casserole a little lighter. By swapping a few ingredients, you can enjoy a healthier version without losing its rich, creamy texture. First, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a protein boost and a lighter feel. Then, swap cream of mushroom soup for a homemade blend using low-fat milk and whole wheat flour. Next, replace melted butter with olive oil for a heart-healthy twist.

For cheese, opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese or use half the amount and still get that gooey goodness. Finally, instead of corn flakes, try whole-grain breadcrumbs or crushed whole-wheat crackers for a fiber boost. These small changes make a big difference, helping you enjoy this cheesy hashbrown casserole guilt-free. The best part? It still tastes just as good, making it a perfect option for everyone at the table.

Healthy Swap Chart

Traditional Ingredient	Healthier Alternative
Sour Cream	Greek Yogurt
Cream of Mushroom Soup	Low-fat homemade soup
Melted Butter	Olive Oil
Cheddar Cheese	Reduced-fat cheddar
Corn Flakes	Whole-grain breadcrumbs

Creative Additions to Elevate the Flavor

If you love experimenting in the kitchen, this simply potatoes cheesy potato recipe is a great base to build on. You can change it up with different flavors, textures, and ingredients to make it even more exciting. First, add some finely diced bell peppers for a pop of sweetness and crunch. Next, mix in chopped spinach or kale to boost the nutrients without altering the taste too much. For a bit of spice, toss in chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

If you want an extra layer of richness, stir in a little cream cheese for a velvety texture. Another fun addition? Swap cheddar cheese for pepper jack cheese to add a hint of heat. The possibilities are endless, so get creative! With these small tweaks, your cheesy hashbrown casserole can be customized for any flavor preference or special occasion.

Flavor Boosting Ideas

For a smoky flavor: Add smoked paprika or roasted red peppers
For extra creaminess: Mix in cream cheese or ricotta
For a hint of spice: Use pepper jack cheese or add jalapeños
For a nutrition boost: Stir in chopped spinach or zucchini

FAQ

What to make with Simply Potatoes?

Simply Potatoes are perfect for quick and easy meals! You can make a cheesy potato casserole, crispy hash browns, or fluffy breakfast potatoes. First, try a cheesy hashbrown casserole by mixing them with shredded cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup. Then, bake in a preheated oven until golden. Also, you can sauté them with melted butter and herbs for a simple side dish.

What kind of potatoes are in Simply Potatoes?

Simply Potatoes uses real, high-quality shredded hash browns made from fresh potatoes. They’re prepped, peeled, and ready to cook—saving you time! These potatoes have a perfect texture, making them great for a cheesy hash brown dish or a crispy breakfast skillet. Also, they’re refrigerated, not frozen, so they stay fresh and cook up beautifully in any casserole recipe.

Why are funeral potatoes called that?

Funeral potatoes got their name because they’re often served at gatherings after memorial services. This cheesy potato casserole is a comfort food favorite, bringing warmth to family meals. First, it’s easy to make in large batches. Then, its creamy texture and crispy corn flakes topping make it irresistible. Also, it’s a potluck classic, showing up at holidays and celebrations.

Can you use Simply Potatoes for mashed potatoes?

Yes! Simply Potatoes work great for creamy mashed potatoes. First, boil them until soft, then mash with melted butter, sour cream, and a pinch of salt. Also, you can mix in cheddar cheese for extra flavor. These ready-to-use potatoes save time, making homemade mashed potatoes quick and effortless. Plus, they pair perfectly with any meal!

A Must-Try Casserole for Any Meal

This simply potatoes cheesy potato recipe is the perfect dish for any occasion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with comforting flavors. The combination of frozen hash browns, shredded cheese, and sour cream creates a rich and satisfying texture. Plus, the crispy corn flakes topping adds the perfect crunch. First, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients.

Then, it bakes beautifully in a preheated oven, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Also, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it great for family dinners or potlucks. Whether you serve it as a side dish or a main meal, it always delivers. Next time you need a no-fail cheesy potato casserole, this is the recipe to try. So, grab a large bowl, mix everything up, and bake until golden. It’s comfort food at its best—simple, delicious, and always a favorite!

Simply Potatoes Cheesy Potato Recipe – Easy & Delicious