California Potatoes
Creamy, cheesy potatoes with scallions and parsley, baked to perfection—ideal comfort dish for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold flavors and hearty textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil potatoes with skins on until done.
- Set aside to cool. Peel potatoes, then grate.
- Chop scallions and add to potatoes. Sprinkle with parsley.
- In a saucepan, combine cream of chicken soup, sour cream, grated Cheddar cheese, and a stick of margarine or butter.
- Heat until the butter or margarine melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour the sauce over the grated potatoes.
- Mix well to combine.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a little milk or cream to the sauce. You can substitute the sharp Cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or a blend of your favorites. If you prefer fresh herbs, feel free to use fresh parsley instead of dried. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking, making it a great option for busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve California Potatoes as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad. It pairs beautifully with Dilled Chicken for a comforting meal. For a vegetarian option, consider serving it with Spinach Garlic Soup to balance flavors and textures. Garnish with additional scallions or parsley for a fresh touch just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Potatoes contains roughly 1002 calories, with 26g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (62% of the Daily Value), potassium (60% of the Daily Value), and iron (55% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 707mg per serving (31% 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 other types of potatoes for this recipe?
Yes, you can use different varieties like Yukon Gold or red potatoes. Each type will bring a slightly different flavor and texture. Just ensure they are medium-sized for even cooking and grating.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking stage and refrigerate it. Just cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven.
Can I freeze California Potatoes?
Yes, this dish can be frozen. Prepare it as directed, but do not bake. Instead, cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed.
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).