Easy Cheesy Potatoes

Easy Cheesy Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food side dish. With tender chunks of potato smothered in a rich, creamy, and cheesy sauce, this casserole-style recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, holidays, or anytime you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to prepare with simple ingredients
  • Bakes to a golden, bubbling perfection
  • Make-ahead friendly and freezer-friendly
  • A crowd-pleaser at any meal or gathering
  • Versatile – great as a side or stand-alone dish

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 3 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 (10.5-ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup butter, melted
  • 1/3 cup chopped scallions
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, divided

directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. Boil diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until just fork-tender, about 10 minutes. Drain thoroughly.
  3. In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, melted butter, scallions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, 1 cup of cheddar, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese.
  4. Fold in the drained potatoes and stir until evenly coated.
  5. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  6. Top with the remaining cheddar and Parmesan cheeses.
  7. Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
  8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 12
  • Prep time: 15 minutes
  • Cook time: 35 minutes
  • Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

  • Add meat: Mix in cooked bacon or diced ham for a heartier dish.
  • Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
  • Try different cheeses: Gruyère, Colby Jack, or pepper jack work beautifully.
  • Crunchy topping: Add crushed crackers, cornflakes, or breadcrumbs with a little butter for a crispy finish.

storage/reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze before baking (without topping) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
  • Reheat: Microwave individual servings or reheat the casserole at 350°F until warm throughout.

FAQs

How can I make this vegetarian?

Use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup instead of cream of chicken.

Can I use frozen hash browns instead of fresh potatoes?

Yes, just thaw and drain them well before mixing with the sauce.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate. Add the topping just before baking.

How do I avoid an overly browned top?

Cover loosely with foil if the top is browning too fast during baking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be if you use a gluten-free condensed soup and verify all other ingredients.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, cooked broccoli, peas, or bell peppers are great additions.

What goes well with cheesy potatoes?

They’re perfect with roast meats, grilled chicken, or baked fish.

How can I make it extra creamy?

Add a splash of milk or a bit more sour cream to the sauce mixture.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

You can, but freshly grated cheese melts better and improves the texture.

Conclusion

Easy Cheesy Potatoes are a beloved classic for good reason—they’re rich, creamy, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing them for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this comforting side dish is guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Try it once, and it’s sure to become a regular part of your meal rotation.

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Easy Cheesy Potatoes

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Easy Cheesy Potatoes are a comforting, creamy, and cheesy side dish made with simple ingredients, perfect for holidays or weeknight dinners.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 68 servings 1x
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs (optional topping)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Boil diced potatoes in salted water for 10-12 minutes until just tender. Drain well.
  3. In a large bowl, mix together the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, chopped onion, melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Fold in the cooked potatoes and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese.
  5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  6. Top with remaining 1/2 cup cheese.
  7. If using, mix crushed cornflakes or breadcrumbs with 2 tablespoons melted butter and sprinkle over the top.
  8. Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  9. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a vegetarian version.
  • Use pre-cooked or leftover potatoes to save time.
  • Add cooked bacon or diced ham for a meaty twist.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 310
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 480mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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