Grandma’s Potatoes Recipe

Grandma’s Potatoes is a timeless comfort food dish that brings warmth, nostalgia, and incredible flavor to the table. This creamy, cheesy baked potato casserole is the kind of dish I remember from family gatherings and holiday meals. It’s simple, hearty, and full of that rich, home-cooked taste I can never get enough of.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy to prepare, incredibly filling, and always a hit with everyone I serve it to. The combination of tender potatoes, sour cream, cheese, and a crunchy topping makes each bite irresistible. Whether I’m making it for a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner, it always feels like a special occasion.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or cubed)

  • Sour cream

  • Cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)

  • Shredded cheddar cheese

  • Butter

  • Onion, finely chopped

  • Salt

  • Black pepper

  • Cornflakes or crushed crackers (for topping)

  • Additional butter for topping

Directions

  1. I preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. In a large bowl, I mix together sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.

  3. I stir in the shredded or cubed hash brown potatoes and half of the shredded cheese until well combined.

  4. I spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and top it with the remaining cheese.

  5. I mix crushed cornflakes (or crackers) with melted butter and sprinkle the mixture over the top of the casserole.

  6. I bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.

  7. I let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow everything to set.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 8–10 servings.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes

Variations

  • I sometimes add cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham to make it a full meal.

  • Swapping the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom makes it vegetarian-friendly.

  • I like using sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor or mixing in Monterey Jack.

  • For a crunchier topping, I use crushed Ritz crackers instead of cornflakes.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I place portions in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or use the microwave for convenience.
This dish also freezes well—I wrap it tightly before baking and store it for up to 2 months. I thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, I often prepare it a day in advance and refrigerate it unbaked. I just add the topping right before baking.

Can I use fresh potatoes instead of frozen?

I can, but it adds prep time. I peel, shred or dice them, then soak and drain to remove excess starch.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Yes, I substitute dairy-free sour cream, butter, and cheese, and use a non-dairy soup alternative if needed.

What’s the best topping: cornflakes or crackers?

Both work great. I use cornflakes when I want a lighter crunch and crackers for a richer topping.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. I sometimes mix in cooked broccoli, peas, or bell peppers for added texture and nutrition.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Potatoes is a beloved classic that always brings comfort and joy to the table. It’s creamy, cheesy, and topped with a crispy, buttery layer that makes it unforgettable. Whether I’m cooking for a holiday or just want a cozy side dish, this recipe never fails to deliver that homemade goodness I remember from my childhood.

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Grandma’s Potatoes Recipe

Grandma’s Potatoes Recipe

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  • Author: Linda
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Yield: 8–10 servings
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

Grandma’s Potatoes is a classic cheesy potato casserole made with hash browns, sour cream, cream of chicken soup, and a buttery, crispy topping. This comforting side dish is perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy family dinners.


Ingredients

  • 1 (32 oz) bag frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or cubed)
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups crushed cornflakes or crackers
  • 1/4 cup melted butter (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stir in hash brown potatoes and 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
  4. Spread mixture evenly in the baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
  5. Mix crushed cornflakes or crackers with 1/4 cup melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
  6. Bake for 45–55 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
  7. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Add cooked bacon or ham to make it a full meal.
  • Use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version.
  • Sharp cheddar adds extra flavor; try Monterey Jack for variety.
  • Top with crushed Ritz crackers for a richer crunch.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/10 of casserole
  • Calories: 330
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 7g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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