Aunt Rita'S Potatoes
A comforting potato casserole layered with cheddar, pimentos, vegetables, and crunchy cornflake topping, perfect for family dinners or potlucks with rich, cheesy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place potatoes in a large pot and cover with water.
- Bring water to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and cook until potatoes are tender.
- Peel and dice the cooked potatoes.
- Put the diced potatoes into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Mix shredded cheddar cheese, drained and diced pimentos, chopped onion, diced green pepper, and bread pieces in a bowl.
- Pour the mixture over the potatoes, mixing well to combine.
- Drizzle milk over the potato mixture.
- Sprinkle cornflake crumbs evenly over the top.
- Bake uncovered for one hour until golden and bubbling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding sour cream or cream cheese to the cheese mixture. If pimentos are unavailable, roasted red peppers can be a delicious substitute. Be sure to use starchy potatoes like Russets for the best results, as they hold up well in baking. This dish can be prepped ahead of time and baked before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty potato dish pairs beautifully with grilled meats or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving alongside Old Fashioned Mashed Potatoes for a comforting spread. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and flavor. It's perfect for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Rita'S Potatoes contains roughly 728 calories, with 11g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value), potassium (50% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 996mg per serving (43% 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 potato mixture a day in advance. Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, remove the wrap and let it come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
What type of potatoes are best for this recipe?
Starchy potatoes like Russets or Idaho potatoes are ideal for this recipe because they become fluffy when cooked, making them perfect for baking. Waxy potatoes, like red or new potatoes, may not yield the desired texture.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian-friendly. Just ensure the cheese you use is rennet-free if you are looking for a strict vegetarian option. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
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).