Aunt Mary'S Cheesy Potatoes
A cheesy, creamy potato casserole with a crispy cornflake topping, perfect for family dinners and potlucks, offering comforting flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together: hash brown potatoes, cream of celery soup, sour cream, diced onion, and shredded cheese.
- Pour the mixture into a 9 x 13-inch rectangular pan.
- Top with 1 1/2 cups crushed corn flakes.
- Drizzle 1 stick melted margarine over the crushed corn flakes.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using cream of mushroom soup instead of cream of celery. If you're looking for a lighter version, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream. Feel free to add cooked bacon or sausage for extra flavor. You can also swap the extra sharp cheese for a milder variety or a mix of your favorites. This dish is similar to Basic Broccoli Casserole when it comes to comfort food appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Aunt Mary’s Cheesy Potatoes make a fantastic side dish for family gatherings or potlucks. They pair beautifully with grilled meats or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Consider serving alongside dishes like Judy's Brownies for dessert, which complement the savory flavors of the potatoes perfectly. They’re ideal for brunches or holiday dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cheesy potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating, but the oven will help keep the topping crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Mary'S Cheesy Potatoes contains roughly 550 calories, with 21g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (45% of the Daily Value), protein (43% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 819mg per serving (36% 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 in the refrigerator. Just add the corn flakes and melted margarine before baking. This makes it convenient for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy your time with guests instead of cooking right before serving.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! The recipe is already vegetarian as it uses hash browns, cream of celery soup, and cheese. To enhance the dish, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. This can boost the flavor and nutritional content without compromising on taste.
What are some variations I can make to this recipe?
You can customize this dish by incorporating different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Adding chopped green chilies or jalapeños can also spice things up. For a twist, try mixing in cooked vegetables or even leftover meats to create a heartier 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).