Barbara'S Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy potato casserole with a crunchy cornflake topping, perfect for family dinners and potlucks, offering comforting flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the frozen hash browns and melted butter or margarine.
- Line the bottom of a 9 x 13-inch pan with the potato mixture.
- In a separate bowl, mix together shredded Cheddar cheese, sour cream, and cream of chicken soup.
- Pour the cheese mixture over the potatoes in the pan.
- Combine cornflake crumbs with melted butter or margarine.
- Spread the cornflake mixture over the top of the casserole.
- Bake covered at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove cover and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using full-fat sour cream and adding a dash of garlic powder to the cheese mixture for extra flavor. If you're short on time, using fresh hash browns instead of frozen can cut prep time. For a lighter version, substitute low-fat cheese and sour cream. This dish is also a great base to add cooked vegetables or leftover meats, making it versatile for various meals.
Serving Suggestions
Barbara's Potatoes make a hearty side dish for any meal and pair beautifully with grilled chicken or steak. For a complete meal, serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. This dish is perfect for gatherings and potlucks, as it can be made ahead of time and easily transported. It also complements recipes like Savory Corn Stuffing or Potluck Dip for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, but the oven method helps maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbara'S Potatoes contains roughly 1032 calories, with 16g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 94g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (33% of the Daily Value), calcium (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1411mg per serving (61% 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 use fresh potatoes instead of frozen hash browns?
Yes, you can use fresh potatoes by grating or shredding them yourself. However, you may need to adjust the cooking time, as fresh potatoes may take longer to cook through compared to frozen hash browns.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the cream of chicken soup with a vegetarian cream soup or a homemade equivalent. Ensure that your cheese and sour cream are also vegetarian-friendly, and you can enjoy a delicious vegetarian casserole.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Barbara's Potatoes a day ahead. Assemble the casserole up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, simply bake it as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking straight from the fridge.
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).