This creamy potato casserole is a winning dish with layers of fluffy potatoes, cheese, and a tasty creamy sauce. It’s comfort food at its best—perfect for family dinners!
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be asking for seconds! I love serving it with a side of veggies for balance. Just keep a fork handy, because it disappears fast! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Shredded Hash Brown Potatoes: These make the casserole super easy! If you can’t find them, use fresh potatoes grated thinly. Just remember to soak and dry them well to remove starch and avoid sogginess!
Condensed Cream of Chicken Soup: This adds creaminess and flavor. You can swap it for cream of mushroom soup for a slightly different taste, or use homemade cream sauce for a more health-conscious option.
Sour Cream: It gives richness. If you’re looking for a lighter version, try Greek yogurt instead! It’ll still be creamy and delicious but with added protein.
Cheddar Cheese: My favorite! Choose sharp cheddar for a bolder taste. You could also experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra kick!
How Can I Make Sure My Casserole Is Creamy and Not Dry?
To keep this casserole creamy, use just the right amount of liquid and cheese. Make sure your ingredients are well-mixed to avoid any dry spots. Here are some handy tips:
- Do not thaw hash browns completely; a little coldness helps them retain moisture.
- Mix sour cream and soup thoroughly so every potato bites gets that creamy goodness.
- Cover the casserole with foil for the first 30 minutes of baking to help steam it before uncovering for the last 15, allowing the top to brown nicely.
How to Make Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 cups frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/3 cups crushed buttery crackers (e.g., Ritz)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 15 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to bake, making it a total of about 1 hour! Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Don’t forget to grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little cooking spray or butter, so the casserole doesn’t stick!
2. Mix the Creamy Base
In a large mixing bowl, pour in the melted butter, cream of chicken soup, and sour cream. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. This will be the flavorful base of your casserole!
3. Add the Potatoes and Seasonings
Next, add the thawed hash browns, 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, chopped green onions (if you’re using them), garlic powder, onion powder, and a dash of salt and pepper. Mix it all together until everything is well-coated!
4. Transfer to Baking Dish
Carefully spoon the potato mixture into the greased baking dish. Use the back of a spoon to spread it out evenly across the dish, making sure it’s level.
5. Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the potato mixture. This will create a delicious, cheesy crust as it bakes!
6. Prepare the Cracker Topping
In a small bowl, mix the crushed crackers with the 3 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir until the crumbs are well-coated with butter. This will give your topping a delightful crunch!
7. Add the Topping
Sprinkle the buttery cracker mixture evenly over the casserole for that perfect crunch factor.
8. Bake It Up!
Pop the casserole in the preheated oven and let it bake uncovered for about 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown and crispy!
9. Serve and Enjoy
Once done, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes to cool. Then, scoop out generous portions and enjoy this creamy, cheesy delight! Perfect for sharing with friends and family!
FAQ for Creamy Million Dollar Potato Casserole
Can I Use Fresh Potatoes Instead of Frozen Hash Browns?
Absolutely! If you prefer using fresh potatoes, shred them thinly and soak them in cold water for about 30 minutes to remove excess starch. Drain and pat dry before using them in the recipe.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
If you have leftovers, let the casserole cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through—add a splash of cream if it seems dry!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge instead of at room temperature.
What Can I Serve with This Casserole?
This creamy casserole pairs well with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or grilled chicken for a balanced meal. It’s rich enough that a simple side dish works best to complement it!
