Annie'S Great Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy potatoes with a crispy topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks, blending hash browns, sour cream, mushroom soup, and melted cheddar cheese.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion in margarine until translucent.
- Mix cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, sautéed onion, and three-quarters of the shredded Cheddar cheese in a bowl.
- Add the frozen hash browns to the mixture and combine well.
- Transfer the mixture to a flat baking dish.
- Top with the remaining shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until bubbly and golden on top.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a bit of milk or using full-fat sour cream. If you want to enhance the flavor, mix in some garlic powder or fresh herbs like chives or parsley. You can substitute the Southern style hash browns with fresh potatoes; just grate and parboil them before mixing. This dish can also be made vegetarian by ensuring the cream of mushroom soup is meat-free.
Serving Suggestions
This dish makes a hearty side for grilled meats or a cozy addition to a brunch spread. It pairs beautifully with Warm Artichoke Dip Or Spread for added variety. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It also works great for potlucks or family gatherings, as it can be made ahead and baked just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but the oven method will help retain the crispiness of the cheese topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Annie'S Great Potatoes contains roughly 371 calories, with 13g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (31% of the Daily Value), protein (27% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 542mg per serving (24% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day before and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bake it just before serving for the best texture. If you want to freeze it, assemble the dish without baking, cover tightly, and it can last up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
What kind of cheese can I use instead of Cheddar?
You can substitute Cheddar with other cheeses such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier kick. For a milder flavor, use Gruyère or Swiss cheese. Mixing different cheeses can also add depth and richness to the dish.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can incorporate vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli to add some color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onions until they are tender before mixing them into the casserole.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).