Aunt Bess' Potatoes
A comforting casserole featuring cheesy hash browns and savory onions, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with a crispy topping and creamy interior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the chopped onion in oleo until translucent.
- Combine the shredded hash brown potatoes, grated Cheddar cheese, cream of chicken soup, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Add the cooked onions to the mixture and stir well.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9 x 13-inch baking pan.
- Sprinkle the cornflake crumbs on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you don't have cornflake crumbs, crushed crackers or breadcrumbs work well as a substitute. To save time, you can use frozen diced onions instead of chopping fresh ones. Make sure to season to taste and adjust the salt and pepper according to your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Bess' Potatoes make a delightful side dish for any meal, especially during the holidays or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with roast chicken or turkey, making them a great complement to dishes like Casserole For Leftover Turkey. For an added crunch, serve with a fresh green salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the potatoes in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating. Cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Bess' Potatoes contains roughly 49 calories, with 1g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 918mg per serving (40% 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 in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Just add the cornflake crumbs just before baking to maintain their crunch. Bake as directed when you're ready to serve.
What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
You can substitute cream of mushroom soup or a homemade creamy sauce made with heavy cream and seasonings. For a lighter version, consider using a low-fat cream soup or a mix of sour cream and milk to achieve a similar consistency.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! You can mix in vegetables like diced bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to sauté any fresh vegetables beforehand to ensure they cook through during baking.
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).