This Million Dollar Potato Casserole is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! Loaded with fluffy potatoes, rich sour cream, and a sprinkle of crunchy topping, it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Perfect for family gatherings or potlucks, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds. I love serving it hot and cheesy, and honestly, who can resist that golden crunch on top? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: I recommend using russet potatoes for their fluffy texture when baked. If you want a quicker option, frozen hash browns work great too. Just skip the boiling step!
Sour Cream: This adds creamy richness. You can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a healthier option or even cottage cheese if you want something lighter.
Cream of Chicken Soup: This is key for flavor and creaminess. You can use cream of mushroom soup for a vegetarian version, or make your own if you prefer homemade ingredients.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, but any cheese you like works too! Feel free to use mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a bit of spice.
Cornflakes or Ritz Crackers: These give that crunchy topping. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or even panko breadcrumbs.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for My Casserole?
Creating the right texture is all about balancing the ingredients and cooking them properly. When boiling the potatoes, make sure they are fork-tender but not mushy. This gives the casserole a nice fluffy texture.
- After mashing, don’t overmix! Leave some lumps for a more rustic feel.
- Remember to mix in the cheese and other ingredients gently to maintain that fluffy texture.
- The final baking process is crucial – bake until the topping is golden brown for that satisfying crunch!
How to Make Million Dollar Potato Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 6 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping Ingredients:
- 2 cups crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and around 30-40 minutes for baking. In total, you’ll spend about 55-65 minutes getting this delightful casserole ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Potatoes:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, peel and dice your potatoes into small chunks. In a large pot, boil these diced potatoes in salted water until they’re nice and tender, which takes about 15 minutes. Once they are tender, drain the water well.
2. Mix the Potato Base:
In a large mixing bowl, slightly mash the cooked potatoes. You want some texture, so don’t mash them too much! Then, add in the sour cream, cream of chicken soup, melted butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and the optional chopped green onions. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix everything together until it’s well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Transfer your potato mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. In a separate bowl, combine the crushed cornflakes or Ritz crackers with about 2 tablespoons of melted butter to moisten them. Sprinkle this crumb topping evenly over the potato mixture for that yummy crunch.
4. Bake and Serve:
Place your prepared casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 40 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and the topping is golden brown. Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Million Dollar Potato Casserole with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Potatoes?
Absolutely! While russet potatoes give a fluffy texture, you can use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for a creamier consistency. If you’re short on time, frozen hash browns are a great shortcut—just skip boiling!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
For a lighter version, consider substituting Greek yogurt for sour cream and using low-fat cream of chicken soup. You can also reduce the amount of cheese, or use a blend of cheeses to cut calories while maintaining flavor.
Can I Prepare This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time since it will go into the oven cold.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to maintain creaminess.
