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.)
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Frozen hash brown potatoes (shredded or cubed)
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Sour cream
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Cream of chicken soup (or homemade equivalent)
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Shredded cheddar cheese
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Butter
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Onion, finely chopped
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Salt
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Black pepper
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Cornflakes or crushed crackers (for topping)
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Additional butter for topping
Directions
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I preheat the oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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In a large bowl, I mix together sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
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I stir in the shredded or cubed hash brown potatoes and half of the shredded cheese until well combined.
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I spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and top it with the remaining cheese.
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I mix crushed cornflakes (or crackers) with melted butter and sprinkle the mixture over the top of the casserole.
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I bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbling around the edges.
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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
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I sometimes add cooked crumbled bacon or diced ham to make it a full meal.
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Swapping the cream of chicken soup for cream of mushroom makes it vegetarian-friendly.
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I like using sharp cheddar for a stronger cheese flavor or mixing in Monterey Jack.
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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.
Print
Grandma’s Potatoes Recipe
- 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
- Preheat oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine sour cream, cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup melted butter, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
- Stir in hash brown potatoes and 1 cup of the shredded cheese.
- Spread mixture evenly in the baking dish and top with remaining cheese.
- Mix crushed cornflakes or crackers with 1/4 cup melted butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 45–55 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
- 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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