Cheesy Potatoes Casserole

🍟 Ingredients

Casserole:

• 32 oz frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
• 10.5 oz can cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup sour cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Gruyère or Monterey Jack, shredded
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• ½ onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Garlic salt, black pepper, and paprika to taste

Crispy Topping:

• 1 cup crushed crackers or cornflakes
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted

👨‍🍳 Directions

1. 1
   Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x13 baking dish.
2. 2
   Sauté diced onion and garlic in a little butter until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. 3
   In a large bowl, whisk together cream of chicken soup, sour cream, cream cheese, melted butter, and seasonings until smooth. Stir in most of the cheddar and Gruyère (reserve some for topping).
4. 4
   Fold in thawed hash browns and sautéed onion and garlic. Mix well.
5. 5
   Spread into prepared baking dish. Top with reserved cheese.
6. 6
   Mix crushed crackers or cornflakes with melted butter. Sprinkle over the top.
7. 7
   Bake uncovered for 55–65 minutes until golden and bubbly. Rest for 10 minutes before serving!

🌿 Health Benefits

Potatoes provide potassium, vitamin C, and complex carbohydrates for energy. Cheese adds calcium and protein for bone and muscle health. This is a rich, indulgent dish best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal.

📚 History

Cheesy potato casserole has roots in 18th-century French gratins, where potatoes were baked with cream and cheese. In the United States, the dish evolved in the mid-20th century with the widespread availability of frozen hash browns and canned soups. It became especially beloved in Latter-day Saint communities, where it earned the affectionate nickname “funeral potatoes” for its frequent appearance at post-funeral gatherings. Today it is a staple of potlucks, holidays, and family dinners across America.

❓ Quiz