Of course! “Potato Casserole” can refer to many delicious dishes, from a cheesy, creamy side to a hearty main course.
Here are three fantastic and popular versions of Potato Casserole:
- Cheesy Funeral Potatoes (The Ultimate Comfort Food Side Dish)
This is a classic, crowd-pleasing potluck casserole. It’s rich, creamy, and topped with a crispy crunch.
Ingredients:
· 1 (32 oz) bag frozen shredded hash browns, thawed
· 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of chicken soup (or cream of mushroom for vegetarian)
· 2 cups sour cream
· 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
· 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
· 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
· 1 tsp garlic powder
· 1/2 tsp black pepper
· Topping: 2 cups cornflakes, slightly crushed + 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, mix the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, 1/2 cup melted butter, onion, cheese, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Gently fold in the thawed hash browns until evenly coated.
- Spread the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- In a small bowl, mix the crushed cornflakes with the 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Sprinkle evenly over the potato mixture.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown.
- Italian Sausage and Potato Bake (A Hearty Main Course)
This is a complete meal in one dish, packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
· 1.5 lbs Italian sausage links (sweet or hot), cut into 1-inch pieces
· 2 lbs russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch chunks
· 1 large bell pepper, chopped
· 1 large onion, chopped
· 3 tbsp olive oil
· 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
· 1 tsp garlic powder
· 1 tsp paprika
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
· 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
· Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the potato chunks, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the vegetable mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish. Scatter the sausage pieces on top.
- Roast for 35-45 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Return to the oven for 5-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley.
- Scalloped Potato Casserole (Elegant and Creamy)
A decadent and creamy casserole perfect for holidays or a special dinner.
Ingredients:
· 3 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced (1/8 inch thick)
· 3 tbsp butter
· 1 small onion, finely chopped
· 3 cloves garlic, minced
· 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
· 2 cups whole milk
· 1 cup heavy cream
· 1 tsp salt
· 1/2 tsp black pepper
· 1/4 tsp nutmeg
· 2 cups shredded Gruyère or sharp white cheddar cheese, divided
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Butter a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk and cream until smooth. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in salt, pepper, nutmeg, and 1 1/2 cups of cheese until melted.
- Assemble the Casserole: Arrange a third of the potato slices in the bottom of the dish. Pour a third of the cheese sauce over them. Repeat layers twice more, ending with sauce.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle with the remaining 1/2 cup of cheese, and bake uncovered for another 20-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the potatoes are tender.
- Let it rest for 15 minutes before serving (the sauce will thicken).
General Tips for Perfect Potato Casserole:
· Potato Choice: Starchy potatoes (Russets) are best for creamy, soft casseroles. Waxy potatoes (Yukon Gold, red potatoes) hold their shape better for hearty bakes.
· Slice Evenly: For scalloped potatoes, use a mandoline slicer for uniform thickness, which ensures even cooking.
· Don’t Skip the Rest: Letting any creamy casserole rest for 10-15 minutes after baking allows the sauce to set, making it easier to serve.
· Make-Ahead: Most potato casseroles can be assembled a day ahead, covered, and refrigerated. Add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Which version are you most excited to try? Enjoy